Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced on Thursday, July 31, 2026, that Egyptian authorities are investigating a drone attack on two vessels at the Damietta port that occurred the previous day. The attack caused fires on a U.S.-owned floating storage facility and a Greek-owned tanker, according to British maritime security firm Ambrey.
Initial investigations by the Egyptian prime minister's office confirmed that the fires were caused by a drone strike. Madbouly stated during a press conference, "The security group is now investigating this issue, and its source, and evaluating the situation to know what would be the reaction of the Egyptian state in the coming period.”
It remains unclear who was responsible for the attack. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have denied involvement. However, a strike by Iran or its allies, if confirmed, would represent a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict in the region.
Egypt, a close ally of the United States and a regional mediator, has so far avoided direct military action during the conflict. The drone attack comes amid renewed missile exchanges between the United States and Iran, dimming hopes for a swift resolution to the five-month conflict.
Loading comments.