Cairo: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the necessity of de-escalating ongoing regional tensions to maintain peace and stability, particularly in the face of disruptions to energy security, supply chains, and trade.

According to Anadolu Agency, the two leaders engaged in a phone call to address several regional and international issues. The Egyptian presidency released a statement indicating that both Sisi and bin Salman highlighted the importance of reducing tensions due to their impact on energy security and the broader implications for regional and international supply chains and trade.

President Sisi underscored the shared destiny between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, stressing the significance of collaborative efforts to tackle regional challenges. He also reiterated that the security of Saudi Arabia and other Arab nations is intrinsically linked to Egyptian national security.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed the need for enhanced coordination between Egypt and Saudi Arabia. He praised the "close coordination" between Cairo and Riyadh aimed at achieving peace and stability in the Middle East. The conversation also touched on bilateral relations, with both sides agreeing on the importance of expanding cooperation across various fields and promoting high-level visits.

The backdrop to these discussions is the escalating tensions in the Middle East, following a US strike on Iran's Larak Island on August 30, which ended a temporary lull in hostilities. Iran has since launched attacks on US military facilities in the region, including bases in Kuwait and the UAE, and has imposed restrictions on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, contingent on the US fulfilling prior commitments.

The US, in response, has increased economic pressure on Iran through 'Operation Economic Outcast,' aiming to cut off Iran's oil revenues and other financial resources, while also continuing military operations.