In a series of high-level discussions underscoring Egypt’s dedication to the stability of the Gulf region, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jassem Mohammed Al-Budaiwi in Riyadh on Monday, 16 March.
Abdelatty emphasized that the security of the Gulf is a “fundamental pillar” of Egypt’s own national interests.
This meeting occurred during the ongoing US-Israeli war with Iran, now in its 18th day. Since the war erupted on 28 February, Iran has launched numerous missile attacks and drone strikes targeting US military installations and energy facilities across several Gulf nations, including the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
Reports indicate that approximately 3,700 Iranian missiles and drones have been launched against these Gulf states in this period.
Abdelatty warned of the “catastrophic consequences” of further military escalation in the region, advocating for the prioritization of diplomatic efforts to prevent a broader conflict. He firmly rejected any foreign intervention in the internal affairs of GCC member states, reinforcing Egypt’s commitment to regional sovereignty.
Additionally, he proposed institutionalizing the Egyptian-Gulf Trade and Investment Forum as a permanent platform to enhance collaboration, building on the momentum from its inaugural session in Cairo in 2015.
Al-Budaiwi praised Egypt’s role as a stabilizing force within the Arab world, commending its diplomatic efforts in crisis resolution and advocacy for Arab interests on the international stage.
In continuation of these efforts, President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi engaged in a phone conversation with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
During this discussion, Al-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s support and solidarity with Saudi Arabia in light of the escalating hostilities. He condemned the Iranian attacks on Saudi territory as unacceptable violations of the sovereignty of a fellow Arab nation and expressed the necessity of safeguarding the resources and rights of Arab peoples.
Egypt’s President also detailed the country’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions.
He commended the efforts made by Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to maintain regional stability and address the current crisis.
Prince bin Salman responded by valuing Egypt’s position in supporting Saudi Arabia, reaffirming the historical and fraternal ties between the two nations.
Furthermore, both leaders discussed strategies to enhance collective Arab efforts in confronting regional challenges and reinforcing the concept of Arab national security.
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