Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi conducted a short but politically significant tour of the Gulf, visiting both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in a show of solidarity as regional tensions continue to escalate.
The visits come at a sensitive moment for the Middle East, with growing concerns over security following recent confrontations involving Iran and rising fears of wider instability affecting Gulf states. Egyptian officials described the trip as a reaffirmation of Cairo’s long-standing position that Gulf security is inseparable from Egypt’s national security.
President Sisi began his tour in Manama, where he was received by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The two leaders held expanded talks with senior delegations from both countries, focusing on the evolving regional situation and ways to contain escalating tensions.
During the discussions, President Sisi reiterated Egypt’s full support for Bahrain in confronting current challenges, strongly condemning what he described as unjustified attacks targeting the kingdom. He also outlined Egypt’s ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation, emphasizing the risks that continued conflict poses to regional stability, economic security, and civilian populations.
The Egyptian president praised Bahrain’s leadership for what he described as a measured and balanced approach to preserving stability. He stressed that Arab nations must strengthen collective security frameworks and increase coordination to manage the crisis.
For his part, King Hamad welcomed the visit as a reflection of deep-rooted bilateral ties, expressing appreciation for Egypt’s consistent support. He described Egypt as a cornerstone of regional stability and a key pillar in maintaining security across the Arab and Islamic worlds. Both leaders agreed to maintain close consultation in the coming period as they work toward restoring calm.
Following his visit to Bahrain, President Sisi traveled to Jeddah, where he was received by Mohammed bin Salman at King Abdulaziz International Airport. Talks between the two sides reflected similar urgency, focusing on regional security developments and coordinated responses to emerging threats.
President Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering backing of Saudi Arabia, stressing that the kingdom’s security is directly linked to Egypt’s own national interests. He also praised the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, expressing confidence in their ability to navigate current challenges.
According to Egyptian officials, President Sisi conveyed clear messages to Tehran urging an immediate halt to hostilities and a return to diplomatic negotiations, underscoring the importance of respecting state sovereignty and adhering to international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlighted the historic depth of Saudi-Egyptian relations and expressed strong appreciation for Cairo’s position during the current crisis, describing it as consistent with Egypt’s traditional leadership role in the Arab world. He emphasized that the kingdom values Egypt’s support and will not forget its stance.
The talks also covered a range of regional issues of mutual concern, with both sides agreeing to intensify coordination and maintain ongoing dialogue in the coming period. The leaders also exchanged greetings ahead of the upcoming Eid al-Fitr.
President Sisi concluded his tour later in the day, returning to Cairo after what officials described as brotherly visits aimed at reinforcing alliances and preventing further escalation in an increasingly volatile regional environment.
