Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister calls for lasting peace, condemns Houthi escalation at Manama Dialogue

Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khereiji addressed the 22nd Manama Dialogue in Bahrain, reaffirming the Kingdom’s dedication to regional security and diplomatic resolution of ongoing conflicts. He condemned continued Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

Commitment to Regional Stability

Speaking at a session titled “The Consequences of Transformative Regional Conflict,” Al-Khereiji stressed the urgent need to contain crises and bolster regional security and stability amid expanding conflicts and worsening humanitarian suffering.

He warned that regional instability threatens maritime security, energy supplies, and the global economy. Al-Khereiji emphasised the importance of protecting countries and their populations while pursuing political settlements that address root causes of conflicts and prevent their recurrence.

Al-Khereiji stated that Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy is rooted in the conviction that its national security is closely tied to the stability of its regional surroundings, and that sustainable peace is essential for development and prosperity.

The deputy minister explained that the Kingdom is strengthening its capabilities to protect its security and sovereignty in line with international law, while intensifying diplomatic efforts to resolve crises based on respect for state sovereignty, good neighbourly relations, and noninterference in internal affairs.

“Saudi Arabia continues its diplomatic efforts, in coordination with brotherly nations and partners, to reduce escalation and resolve differences through peaceful means in a way that preserves the region’s security and stability,” Al-Khereiji said.

Yemen Crisis and Houthi Aggression

Addressing developments in Yemen, Al-Khereiji reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s continued support for the internationally recognised Yemeni government and efforts to reach a comprehensive political settlement that preserves Yemen’s unity and security.

He condemned the continued escalation by the Houthi militia against Yemen and its people, as well as against Saudi Arabia, particularly attacks targeting civilian facilities and threats to maritime navigation.

Al-Khereiji said the Houthis are seeking to undermine de-escalation efforts and diplomatic initiatives aimed at reaching a political settlement to the Yemeni crisis, while expanding the conflict and obstructing opportunities to restore regional security and stability.

Building Resilience and Defense Capabilities

The deputy minister also highlighted the importance of strengthening countries’ resilience in the face of regional crises. In this context, he said Saudi Arabia is developing its defence capabilities, protecting critical infrastructure and vital facilities, enhancing cybersecurity, and ensuring the continuity of essential services.

These efforts are accompanied by closer coordination among Gulf countries and the expansion of the Kingdom’s defence partnerships, he added.

Concluding his remarks, Al-Khereiji reaffirmed that Saudi Arabia, under the directives of its leadership, continues to work with regional and international partners to establish a regional security framework based on stable states and just political settlements. He emphasised that these efforts aim to safeguard the right of the region’s peoples to security, development, and prosperity.