Sisi Offers Support to Saudi Arabia, Vows to Leave Office in 2030

[Fatai Muiz]

CAIRO: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi said on Saturday that he had asked parliament to convene an emergency session to authorize him to take defensive action in support of Saudi Arabia if requested by the kingdom.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Military Academy, Sisi reaffirmed Egypt's readiness to take necessary measures to defend Saudi Arabia in line with the directives of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

He described attacks against Saudi Arabia as a threat to Arab and Egyptian national security, stressing that Egypt would not accept any actions that undermine the kingdom's security or stability.

The president also expressed concern over threats to the Red Sea and international shipping routes, highlighting the need to protect maritime security and prevent further escalation of regional tensions.

Sisi thanked Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait for their historic support for Egypt, acknowledging their contributions to the country.

Sisi Confirms He Will Leave Office in 2030

In a separate announcement, Sisi said he would leave office when his current presidential term expires in 2030, insisting that his decision was final.

The 71-year-old former army general, who became president in 2014, made the declaration during the graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Military Academy in the New Administrative Capital, a major development project east of Cairo.

Addressing graduates and senior government officials, Sisi pledged to uphold the Egyptian Constitution, stating that it would not be altered.

He said the period leading up to 2030 would mark the conclusion of his presidency, adding that there would be no further debate over his departure from office.

Sisi also disclosed plans to prepare a new generation of leaders before the end of his tenure. He said the Military Academy was training hundreds of prospective officials, ministers and presidential candidates in governance, leadership and statecraft.