What is behind the Saudi request for Egyptian soldiers?
Saudi Arabia's Oct. 26 request for Egyptian troops, approved by the Egyptian parliament, reflects broader security concerns beyond conventional defense — a potential land dispute in Yemen, pressure from the Houthis, the Iraqi border and instability in kingdoms to the east. Analysts say the deployment is likely intended to prevent a costly ground intervention in Yemen while addressing concerns that the expansion of the axis of resistance could alter the regional balance of power. The move marks a shift from the exclusive security guarantee of the US towards a number of power centers and new alliances.