Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received US Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in a meeting attended by Egyptian Intelligence Chief Hassan Rashad. The encounter focused on strengthening strategic ties between Egypt and the United States. President El-Sisi highlighted the long-standing and evolving relations between the two nations, praising the level of coordination and consultation on shared regional and international concerns.
The President emphasized Egypt's view of the US as a key strategic partner in politics, security, and economics. He commended US President Donald Trump's efforts to achieve global security, peace, and stability. The meeting covered developments in the Middle East, with President El-Sisi expressing Egypt's full support for efforts to reach a comprehensive agreement to end the Iranian crisis, ensuring regional security and international navigation.
President El-Sisi reiterated Egypt's commitment to Arab state security and sovereignty, rejecting any aggression against them. He stressed the importance of resolving regional crises through diplomatic channels and addressing their roots to preserve national institutions and territorial integrity. Ratcliffe conveyed President Trump's greetings, expressing appreciation for the meeting and US commitment to working closely with Egypt to promote Middle Eastern stability.
The CIA Director praised Egypt's pivotal role in seeking peaceful resolutions to regional crises, noting strong cooperation between the CIA and Egyptian General Intelligence in counter-terrorism and transnational crime. The meeting also touched on the Palestinian issue, with President El-Sisi emphasizing the need for full implementation of the second phase of the US plan to stabilize the Gaza ceasefire.
President El-Sisi highlighted the importance of a lasting ceasefire, civilian protection, and sustained humanitarian aid to Gaza. He also stressed the need to create conditions for resuming political talks to achieve a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, based on international legitimacy and the two-state principle. Ratcliffe commended Egypt's role in the Gaza ceasefire agreement and its efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
The leaders also discussed the Sudanese crisis, with President 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. Egypt's engagement in international and regional efforts aims to halt the war, alleviate humanitarian suffering, and support a political settlement.
The meeting concluded with discussions on the Horn of Africa, where President El-Sisi expressed Egypt's support for achieving security and stability in Somalia, rejecting any infringement on its sovereignty or territorial integrity. Ratcliffe appreciated Egypt's role in promoting African security and stability, emphasizing the need for continued coordination on regional issues, including Sudan, Somalia, and international navigation.
Key points
- Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi emphasized his country's support for a comprehensive agreement to end the Iranian crisis.
- The Egyptian leader highlighted the importance of Arab state security and sovereignty, rejecting any aggression against them.
- President El-Sisi and Ratcliffe discussed the Palestinian issue, the Sudanese crisis, and the Horn of Africa, reaffirming their commitment to regional stability and security.
