UN Meeting Highlights Threat from Yemen’s Houthis
UNITED NATIONS — On Thursday, Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister expressed deep concerns about the increasing danger posed by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, which he believes threatens more than just Saudi Arabia. He called for global collaboration to safeguard vital shipping routes after Saudi forces intercepted six ballistic missiles aimed at their territory.
Speaking to reporters during the UN General Assembly in New York, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud confirmed that Riyadh is working closely with the United States and other international partners, noting that the Houthi forces are targeting Saudi lands and commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
According to reports, the Saudi-led coalition successfully intercepted six missiles allegedly fired by the Houthis towards the Saudi cities of Taif and Yanbu. It remains unclear if these missile attacks caused any injuries or damages.
Saudi authorities also issued alerts for several regions, including Jeddah and Mecca, but later announced that the immediate threat had subsided. Yanbu is particularly critical as an oil export location and is under increased scrutiny due to ongoing tensions impacting shipping in the region.
When asked if Saudi Arabia was receiving adequate support from the U.S. for military action against the Houthis, Prince Faisal reiterated that the country is capable of defending itself, while also emphasizing the need for a broader international response.
He stated, “We are defending ourselves and responding to Houthi attacks, but it’s crucial that we coordinate with global partners, as this issue concerns more than just Saudi Arabia.”
The prince highlighted that the threats from the Houthis, especially regarding the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, pose significant risks to international shipping and global security, urging collective action from the international community. He expressed gratitude to nations currently cooperating with Saudi Arabia and noted that discussions with U.S. officials were ongoing.
Furthermore, as the situation continues to evolve, the Trump administration is reportedly reconsidering military options as Houthi forces gain ground in Yemen. Recent reports suggest that U.S. support has mainly been limited to intelligence sharing and targeting assistance, without direct intervention in the conflict.
The Houthi advances have sparked increased worries about control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—an essential maritime route connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden that is vital for international trade and oil exports from Saudi Arabia.
