Egypt says air force, Navy join in Yemen intervention

Egypt today said that its air force and navy are participating in a Saudi-led intervention against Shiite Huthi rebels in Yemen to restore legitimacy and stability in the country.
The government had previously said it would be prepared to commit ground troops as well if required.
Egyptian navy and air forces were participating in the operations in Yemen, a statement issued by the presidency said.
Egypt's decision came after Saudi Arabia announced that it has launched an army campaign to protect the legitimate Yemeni government of president Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi.
Earlier in the day, Egypt has announced that it will provide political and military support for an operation launched by the "countries coalition for supporting the Yemeni legitimate government", according a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The decision came on the basis of Egypt's historical responsibility towards National Arab security and the security of the Arab Gulf area, the statement added.
It said the action came in response to "demands by the Yemeni nation for the return of stability and to preserve its Arab identity," in an apparent reference to Iran's backing for the Huthis.