Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi met with CIA Director John Ratcliffe on September 20, 2026, to discuss ways to enhance strategic relations between Egypt and the United States. The meeting, which took place in the presence of Egyptian General Intelligence Chief Hassan Rashad, focused on strengthening cooperation on regional and international issues of mutual concern. President el-Sisi expressed Egypt's appreciation for its long-standing and distinguished relations with the US, which have continued to evolve across various fields.
During the meeting, President el-Sisi reviewed developments in the Middle East, emphasizing Egypt's full support for efforts to reach a comprehensive agreement to end the Iranian crisis. This, he said, would help restore security and stability in the region and ensure international freedom of navigation. The Egyptian leader also reiterated his country's commitment to supporting Arab security and sovereignty, rejecting any aggression against Arab states.
CIA Director Ratcliffe conveyed US President Donald Trump's greetings to President el-Sisi, expressing appreciation for the meeting and highlighting the Trump administration's commitment to working closely with Egypt to promote peace and stability in the Middle East. Ratcliffe praised Egypt's pivotal role in supporting efforts to reach peaceful and comprehensive settlements to regional crises, citing strong cooperation between the CIA and Egyptian General Intelligence on security, intelligence, and counter-terrorism issues.
The two officials also discussed developments in the Palestinian issue, with President el-Sisi stressing the importance of fully implementing the second phase of the US plan to stabilize the ceasefire in Gaza. He commended the efforts of mediators to establish a roadmap for implementing this phase. The Egyptian leader reiterated his country's unwavering stance on the Palestinian issue, emphasizing the need to protect civilians, ensure sustained humanitarian access, and create conditions for resuming the political process.
Ratcliffe acknowledged Egypt's crucial role in brokering the Gaza ceasefire agreement and its ongoing efforts to support peace and stability in the region. The meeting also touched on the Sudanese crisis, with President el-Sisi reaffirming Egypt's steadfast support for Sudan's unity, stability, and legitimate national institutions. He emphasized that Sudan's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity are unshakeable constants.
The discussions also covered developments in the Horn of Africa, with President el-Sisi expressing Egypt's full support for efforts to achieve security and stability in Somalia. He categorically rejected any infringement on Somalia's sovereignty or territorial integrity. Ratcliffe expressed US appreciation for Egypt's active role in promoting security and stability in Africa, emphasizing the importance of continued coordination and consultation between the two countries on regional issues.
The meeting between President el-Sisi and CIA Director Ratcliffe highlighted the strong strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States, with both sides committed to addressing regional challenges and promoting peace and stability. The two leaders agreed on the need for sustained dialogue and cooperation to tackle pressing security, geopolitical, and counter-terrorism issues in the region.
Key points
- Egypt's President Sisi and CIA Director Ratcliffe discussed regional issues, including the Iranian crisis and the situation in Gaza.
- The two officials emphasized the importance of cooperation on security, intelligence, and counter-terrorism issues.
- Egypt and the US reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace and stability in the Middle East and Africa.
