Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received John Ratcliffe, Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), on September 20, 2026, in a meeting attended by Egyptian Intelligence Chief Hassan Rashad. The meeting focused on enhancing strategic relations between Egypt and the United States, with President El-Sisi emphasizing the importance of the long-standing and distinguished ties between the two nations.
According to the Egyptian presidency's spokesperson, President El-Sisi and Ratcliffe discussed various regional and international issues of mutual interest. The Egyptian leader praised the level of coordination and consultation between Egypt and the US, highlighting the efforts of US President Donald Trump to promote global security, peace, and stability. El-Sisi also expressed Egypt's appreciation for the US role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.
The meeting covered developments in the Middle East, with President El-Sisi reiterating Egypt's support for a comprehensive agreement to resolve the Iranian crisis. This, he said, would help restore security and stability in the region and ensure international navigation freedom. El-Sisi also emphasized Egypt's commitment to defending Arab state sovereignty and rejecting any aggression against them.
Ratcliffe conveyed President Trump's greetings to El-Sisi, expressing appreciation for the meeting and the US administration's commitment to working closely with Egypt to promote regional security and stability. He praised Egypt's pivotal role in supporting efforts to achieve peaceful and comprehensive settlements to regional crises, citing the existing cooperation between the CIA and Egyptian intelligence agencies in combating terrorism and organized crime.
The discussion also touched on the Palestinian issue, with President El-Sisi stressing the importance of fully implementing the second phase of the US plan to stabilize the Gaza Strip. He commended the efforts of mediators in reaching a roadmap for this phase. El-Sisi reiterated Egypt's stance on the Palestinian issue, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire, civilian protection, and sustained humanitarian aid access.
Ratcliffe acknowledged Egypt's crucial role in brokering a Gaza ceasefire and its ongoing efforts to support peace and stability in the region. The two officials also discussed the Sudanese crisis, with El-Sisi reaffirming Egypt's support for Sudan's unity, stability, and legitimate national institutions. He emphasized that Sudan's sovereignty and territorial integrity are unshakeable constants.
The meeting concluded with a review of developments in the Horn of Africa, with President El-Sisi expressing Egypt's support for efforts to achieve security and stability in Somalia. Ratcliffe appreciated Egypt's active role in promoting African security and stability, highlighting the importance of continued coordination between the two nations on regional and international issues.
Key points
- Egypt and the US are working to strengthen strategic ties and coordinate on regional security issues.
- President El-Sisi emphasized Egypt's support for a comprehensive agreement to resolve the Iranian crisis.
- The meeting covered various regional crises, including the Palestinian issue, the Sudanese crisis, and developments in the Horn of Africa.
