The Egyptian Strategy in confronting Maritime Threats in the Red Sea and its Impact on Arab Regional Security

Abstract

The Red Sea is witnessing rapid strategic transformations driven by intensifying regional and international competition, as well as the growing prevalence of both traditional and non-traditional maritime threats. These developments have made it one of the most geopolitically significant regions affecting both regional and international security. Egypt has emerged as one of the principal littoral states of the Red Sea, with its national interests being directly linked to the security of this vital maritime corridor, which encompasses the Suez Canal—one of the world’s most important arteries of international trade and a major source of Egypt’s national income.

This study aims to analyze Egypt’s strategy for confronting maritime threats in the Red Sea and to examine the military, political, and diplomatic instruments adopted by Cairo to strengthen its maritime security. It also evaluates the implications of this strategy for Arab regional security. The study employs both the descriptive-analytical approach and the geopolitical approach to examine the nature of maritime threats and to interpret Egypt’s strategic behavior in addressing them.

The findings indicate that Egypt’s strategy has been comprehensive, combining the modernization of naval capabilities, the strengthening of regional alliances, and active participation in collective security initiatives. These measures have significantly reinforced Egypt’s position as one of the key actors within the Red Sea security architecture.