Egypt Rules Out Military Role in Iran Conflict, Warns Region ‘On the Cusp of Exploding’

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Cairo: Egypt has not received any requests from Arab states to intervene militarily against Iran, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said, as he warned that the Middle East is nearing a dangerous tipping point amid escalating conflict.

Speaking to reporters and diplomats on Tuesday, Abdelatty said Cairo had not been asked by its Gulf allies to provide military support as they fend off Iranian drone and missile attacks.

“The situation is very difficult and the entire region is on the cusp of exploding,” he said, adding that Egypt remains focused on diplomatic efforts to end the war.

Abdelatty recently toured the Gulf, conveying Egypt’s solidarity to leaders in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and Jordan, countries that, along with Bahrain and Kuwait, have faced sustained Iranian attacks since the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28.

Gulf states and Jordan have intercepted thousands of Iranian drones and missiles since the conflict began, while Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted global supply chains and driven oil prices sharply higher.

Abdelatty’s remarks appeared to respond to criticism on social media accusing Egypt of failing to support Gulf allies militarily, particularly given Cairo’s long-standing reliance on financial backing from oil-rich states.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi has repeatedly stressed that Gulf security is integral to Egypt’s national security, but has prioritised diplomatic engagement over direct involvement in the conflict.

Cairo is leveraging its ties with the United States and other major powers to push for a ceasefire, Abdelatty said, without providing further details. Egypt has been actively engaged in mediation efforts, with El Sisi and senior officials holding consultations with regional and Western leaders.

The conflict presents a complex challenge for Egypt, the Arab world’s most populous country and a key US ally. While relations with Israel have been strained since the Gaza war in 2023, ties between El Sisi and US President Donald Trump remain strong.

Egypt has also avoided direct criticism of Washington’s role in the conflict, as it seeks US support on key issues including Gaza, its dispute with Ethiopia over the Nile, and efforts to end the war in Sudan.

Cairo receives approximately $1.3 billion in annual US military aid and depends on international backing for economic stability.

Meanwhile, Egypt’s relations with Iran have improved in recent years after decades of tension, though full diplomatic ties have yet to be restored. Analysts say Cairo’s cautious approach reflects its desire to maintain solidarity with Gulf allies who remain wary of Tehran’s regional influence.

Despite these complexities, Egypt continues to position itself as a mediator, warning that prolonged conflict could have severe consequences for the entire region.