Iran says Egypt's security is vital after port drone attack

Egypt's energy security was impacted on July 29, 2026, when a suspected drone strike caused a fire aboard the U.S.-owned LNG storage tanker Energos Winter at Damietta port. The blaze subsequently spread to the Greek-flagged GasLog Salem. No casualties were reported.

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly confirmed that Egypt had secured alternative energy supplies to meet national demand. Maritime security firm Ambrey assessed the incident as a suspected drone attack, though Egyptian authorities have not officially confirmed this. Damietta is a key LNG export terminal for Egypt.

Prior to the attack, Egypt had been diversifying its energy sourcing due to previous disruptions from Gulf sources earlier in 2026. Libya had been supplying crude oil at approximately 1.2 million barrels per delivery, providing a buffer.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated on Thursday that Egypt's security is of "utmost importance" to the Islamic Republic, calling Egypt an "important friend and partner in the region." His comments follow the attack, raising fears of the Iran war widening.