Yemen and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Ties Amid Ongoing Conflict

Yemen's Foreign Minister Afrah al-Zouba and Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a phone conversation on Thursday to discuss the latest developments in Yemen and the region, the Saba news agency of Yemen's internationally recognised government reported.

The Yemeni minister briefed her Saudi counterpart on the ongoing Houthi attacks on critical infrastructure, including Aden International Airport, displacement camps, and state institutions.

She also highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Taiz, where the Houthi forces have imposed a siege, restricting access to essential supplies such as food, water, medicine, and fuel.

Al-Zouba reaffirmed Yemen's solidarity with Saudi Arabia and condemned the Houthi attacks against the Kingdom, emphasizing that Saudi Arabia's security is closely linked to Yemen's security.

She expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia's continued support, including political, economic, humanitarian, and development aid, as well as its assistance to Yemeni residents in the Kingdom.

The Saudi Foreign Minister reiterated his country's firm support for Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council, legitimate government, and people, reaffirming the Kingdom's commitment to Yemen's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Both ministers stressed the importance of strengthening coordination to address shared threats, ease the suffering of the Yemeni people, and promote security, stability, and development.

Background

Yemen has been embroiled in a devastating conflict since 2015, when the Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, seized control of the capital, Sana'a, and forced the internationally recognized government to flee.

The conflict has resulted in one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and in need of aid.

International Response

The international community has been working to find a peaceful solution to the conflict, with the United Nations playing a key role in efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and a political settlement.

Saudi Arabia has been a key player in the conflict, providing military and humanitarian support to the Yemeni government.