MBS Says Riyadh Will Defend Security Amid Yemen Conflict

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has said the kingdom will not compromise its security in the face of attacks by Yemen’s Houthi armed group.

Speaking on behalf of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the opening of the third year of the ninth session of Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council on Wednesday, MBS accused the Houthis of choosing “chaos and destruction” and threatening Yemen and the wider region.

He said Saudi Arabia “will not hesitate to respond firmly to any threat or attack” aimed at undermining its security.

The crown prince also highlighted the trilateral Mecca Joint Defence Agreement between Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan, which was formalised in August. He said the agreement was intended to strengthen regional stability, protect countries from the effects of conflicts and coordinate defence efforts.

At the same time, MBS said Saudi Arabia was continuing efforts to reduce tensions and support diplomatic solutions, while maintaining its commitment to protecting the kingdom’s security.

Maritime Coalition for Red Sea Security

MBS also addressed Houthi attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, rejecting the use of international waterways for political or economic pressure.

He said a multinational defensive maritime coalition had been established to protect common interests and safeguard international waterways.

Tensions have intensified in recent weeks as the Houthis have increased attacks against Saudi Arabia while fighting Yemen’s internationally recognised, Saudi-backed government forces.

Saudi authorities said last week that they had intercepted six ballistic missiles launched by the Houthis towards Taif and the Yanbu port area.

The Houthis have also claimed responsibility for attacks targeting what they described as a sensitive site in Riyadh and facilities belonging to Saudi Aramco in Yanbu.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif said on Tuesday that Islamabad would provide Saudi Arabia with whatever means were available under the mutual defence agreement if Houthi attacks against the kingdom continued.

• Tweet
• Share
• Share
• Share
• Share