Egypt, Saudi Arabia warn against unilateral actions that could disrupt global shipping

CAIRO – 28 June 2026: Egypt and Saudi Arabia warned against unilateral actions that could undermine international shipping or global trade, as the two countries discussed regional tensions and the recent signing of the interim deal between Iran and the US.

In a phone call, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan said recent diplomatic developments should be leveraged to reinforce de-escalation efforts and reduce tensions across the region.

The two ministers stressed the importance of safeguarding the security of the Gulf states as an integral part of Arab national security.

They also called for freedom of navigation to be upheld in accordance with international law.

In addition to Iran, the ministers discussed developments in Lebanon, the Palestinian cause and security in the Red Sea, reaffirming their countries' shared positions on those issues.

They agreed to maintain close consultation and coordination in the coming period to support regional security and stability and strengthen joint Arab efforts to address current challenges.

The call also reaffirmed the close strategic ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia and the two countries' commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across various fields.

The presidents of the United States and Iran signed an initial peace agreement in mid-June aimed at ending the war between the two countries, allowing the deal to take immediate effect while negotiations continue on a comprehensive final settlement.

The memorandum of understanding provides for the "immediate and permanent termination of military operations" on all fronts, including in Lebanon, and outlines a framework for addressing Iran's nuclear program, and reopening shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global energy shipments.