Potential Egyptian Military Intervention in Yemen: Implications and Legal Considerations
Yemeni media reports suggest Egypt may undertake military action against the Houthis backed by Israel to protect its Suez Canal revenues. Experts underline Egypt’s right to self-defense under international law, stressing the need for any military response to be proportionate. The situation highlights growing regional tensions, exacerbated by ongoing Israeli actions.
Recent reports from Yemeni media suggest that Israel is alleging Egypt is preparing for military action against Yemen, specifically targeting the Houthi forces. According to Yehoshua Meir Lichter, an Israeli researcher associated with the Dayan Center at Tel Aviv University, this intervention is said to be necessitated by the need to protect the Suez Canal’s revenue streams, which have been adversely impacted by Houthi actions. Furthermore, Lichter mentioned that the Egyptian Air Force is strategizing offensive operations against the Houthis in response to what they perceive as significant losses due to the group’s activities.
Mohamed Mahmoud Mehran, an expert in international law, further elaborated on Egypt’s legal justifications for such military measures, citing the country’s right to safeguard its national interests. He highlighted that threats to maritime navigation constitute an immediate danger to Egypt’s security. Referencing Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, Mehran affirmed that nations possess the right to self-defense and stressed that any military actions undertaken by Egypt should remain proportional to the threats faced and comply with international legal statutes. He also remarked on the ongoing regional tensions attributed to Israel’s actions, urging the international community to uphold international law and support regional stability.
The current situation in Yemen involves ongoing conflicts between the Houthi movement and various regional actors, significantly impacting nations situated along crucial maritime routes such as the Suez Canal. Egypt, which relies heavily on the revenue generated from transiting vessels, perceives Houthi activities as a threat to its economic and national security. The involvement of Israel in this context, as articulated by Yemeni and Israeli sources, raises concerns regarding the broader implications of military interventions in the region and their legality under international law.
In summary, there are reports of potential Egyptian military intervention in Yemen, allegedly supported by Israel, aimed at countering the threats posed by the Houthis. Experts assert that Egypt has a legal right to defend itself against these threats, but any military actions must adhere to principles of proportionality and international law. The situation underscores the complex interplay of regional tensions and international legal considerations, particularly regarding maritime security.
Original Source: en.irna.ir
