Egypt, Eritrea challenge external powers over Red Sea future
Egypt and Eritrea have formed a joint stance to challenge the influence of non-littoral powers in the Red Sea. Both nations argue that security and governance of the maritime corridor should be managed exclusively by the coastal states.
Why it matters
This diplomatic move reflects growing regional resistance to foreign military presence in a critical global trade route, potentially impacting international maritime security.
CAIRO – Egypt and Eritrea have reinforced a shared vision for the future of Red Sea security, arguing that the strategic waterway should be managed solely by its coastal states as competition for influence intensifies across one of the world's most critical maritime corridors.
During talks in Cairo on Sunday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh rejected attempts by non-littoral countries to impose security arrangements or military roles in the Red Sea, saying governance of the waterway rests exclusively with the states that border it.
The joint position reflects mounting concern among regional governments over the expanding presence of external powers in the Red Sea, where military bases, naval deployments and competition for access to ports have accelerated alongside conflicts in Yemen and Sudan and persistent threats to commercial shipping.
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