Egypt is reportedly pushing to revive a joint Arab military force modeled after NATO, aimed at serving as a rapid response mechanism to defend Arab states in the event of an attack. The initiative is gaining traction ahead of an Arab-Islamic summit in Doha on Monday.
According to Arab media reports, including the Lebanese pro-Hezbollah outlet Al-Akhbar, government sources in Cairo confirmed that the plan has resurfaced in light of recent developments in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The London-based Al-Quds Al-Arabi reported that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is seeking regional support for the creation of a force that can be deployed quickly to protect any Arab country under threat. Sources describe the proposal as a “protective umbrella”, rather than a measure targeting Israel.
Egypt is reportedly offering around 20,000 troops and has proposed placing a four-star Egyptian officer in command, while Saudi Arabia could hold the deputy position. Discussions also include potential contributions from Morocco and Algeria, balancing regional politics with military capability.
While still in the discussion phase, the plan is seen as a strategic move by Egypt to assert a central role in shaping a new security architecture in the Arab world.
However, the proposal has drawn criticism from Israeli leaders, with opposition leader Yair Lapid calling it a “serious blow to peace agreements”. Lapid noted that the move comes after the Abraham Accords, which followed Arab nations’ recognition of a Palestinian state.
So far, no official confirmation has come from Cairo authorities regarding the establishment of this force.
