Egyptian-American Discussions Address Red Sea Tensions

Asharq Al-Awsat

10-04-2025

Recent escalations in the Red Sea have prompted high-level discussions between Egyptian and American defense officials concerning the impact of Houthi attacks on maritime security and the global economy.
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth engaged in a telephone conversation with Egypt's Minister of Defense and Military Production, General Abdel Majeed Saqr, to underscore the robust strategic partnership between the United States and Egypt.
According to a statement from the US Department of Defense, the two leaders explored means to enhance mutual interests, focusing on the significance of Red Sea security. They addressed the destabilizing actions of the Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen, which have adversely affected the Suez Canal and the broader global economy.
In a related development, US President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi discussed regional mediation efforts aimed at restoring stability. The Egyptian presidency reported that the leaders deliberated on developments in the Middle East and mediation initiatives to reestablish calm, positively influencing Red Sea navigation and mitigating economic losses.
Trump, via his Truth Social platform, highlighted the substantial military progress made against the Houthi group, who have been responsible for attacks on vessels in the Red Sea. He also noted discussions with Sisi regarding the situation in Gaza, potential solutions, and military readiness.
The United States initiated military operations against the Houthi group on March 15, following the group's declaration to resume attacks on ships linked to Israel traversing the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden.
Since November 2023, numerous global shipping companies have altered their routes to avoid the Red Sea due to the Houthi attacks, which the group claims are in retaliation for Israel's military actions in Gaza. This rerouting has led to significant economic repercussions, particularly for Egypt. Sisi revealed that the Suez Canal has suffered monthly revenue losses of approximately $800 million as a result of the ongoing instability in the region.
Egypt has consistently expressed support for efforts aimed at ensuring the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, given the adverse effects on the Suez Canal. However, Egyptian officials have emphasized their reluctance to join any military alliances.
Military expert Major General Samir Farag stated that while Egypt seeks assistance in securing Red Sea navigation, it prefers not to participate in military coalitions, having previously declined involvement in the US-led 'Prosperity Guardian' initiative. Farag also linked the restoration of security in the Red Sea to the cessation of hostilities in Gaza, noting that attacks on vessels subsided during the truce.
Similarly, Ambassador Hussein Haridi, a former Egyptian Assistant Foreign Minister, indicated that the United States has shown interest in involving Egypt in Red Sea affairs. He suggested that the recent communication between the defense ministers of both nations aligns with this context.
Haridi underscored Egypt's position that, despite being significantly affected by Red Sea tensions, the root cause lies in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.