Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Walid al-Khureiji emphasized on Saturday the urgent need to contain regional crises and consolidate security and stability in the region, stressing the importance of protecting countries and peoples and working hard towards settlements that address the causes of conflicts and prevent their recurrence. This came during a speech he delivered at the "Implications of the Transformative Regional Conflict" session, within the works of the 22nd edition of the "Manama Dialogue 2026" conference in the Bahraini capital, according to the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Al-Khureiji pointed out that the region is going through a delicate phase, amid the expansion of conflict circles in recent years, the worsening of humanitarian suffering, and negative repercussions on navigation security, energy supplies, and the global economy. He clarified that his country's policy is based on a firm conviction that its security is linked to the stability of its regional neighborhood, and that achieving development and prosperity requires sustainable peace.
Enhancing Capabilities and Diplomacy
Al-Khureiji added that the Kingdom combines enhancing its capabilities to protect its security and sovereignty in accordance with international law, with intensifying diplomatic efforts to address crises, based on respecting the sovereignty of states, good neighborliness, and non-interference in internal affairs. He said the Kingdom continues its diplomatic efforts, in coordination with brothers and partners, to de-escalate tensions and settle differences through peaceful means, thereby preserving the security and stability of the region.
On the Yemeni issue, Al-Khureiji affirmed his country's continued support for the legitimate government and efforts aimed at a comprehensive political settlement that preserves the unity and security of Yemen. He also condemned the continued escalation by what he described as "terrorist Houthi militias" against Yemen, its people, and Saudi Arabia, particularly targeting civilian assets and threatening navigation security.
Cybersecurity and Gulf Challenges
Al-Khureiji accused the Houthis of seeking to undermine de-escalation efforts and diplomatic initiatives aimed at finding a political settlement to the Yemeni crisis, expanding the circle of conflict, and thwarting opportunities to restore regional security and stability. He noted that regional challenges highlight the importance of enhancing countries' resilience in the face of crises, pointing out that the Kingdom is working on developing its defensive capabilities, protecting its infrastructure and vital facilities, and strengthening its cybersecurity and continuity of basic services.
He added that these efforts include strengthening Gulf coordination and expanding defense partnerships, affirming that his country is working with brothers and partners to consolidate regional security based on stable states and fair political settlements. Al-Khureiji's comments come amid a military escalation involving ballistic missile and drone attacks on areas inside the Kingdom, according to coalition announcements.
Broader Regional Context
Since March 2015, Saudi Arabia has led a military coalition to support the internationally recognized Yemeni government against the Houthi group, which has controlled the capital Sanaa and other provinces since September 2014. On February 28 last year, the United States and Israel began attacks on Iran, which responded by targeting Israel and American assets in the region, before reaching a ceasefire agreement in April last year.
On June 18 last year, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding regarding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, although its implementation was stalled due to disputes concerning the security of the strait.
Source: Anadolu Agency
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