MBS Warns of Firm Response

Mohammed bin Salman said Saudi Arabia would not hesitate to respond firmly to any threat or attack targeting the kingdom's security.

He accused the Houthis of choosing a path of chaos and destruction and said their actions were threatening both the Yemeni population and regional stability.

At the same time, the crown prince said Saudi Arabia was making efforts to prevent further escalation.

He emphasized that Riyadh's diplomatic efforts would not come at the expense of the kingdom's security.

Saudi Arabia Highlights Regional Defense Cooperation

MBS pointed to the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement involving Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan, which was formalized in August.

He said the agreement demonstrates Saudi Arabia's intention to strengthen regional stability, protect the region from the effects of conflicts and coordinate security efforts.

The agreement has added another layer of regional defense cooperation as Saudi Arabia faces growing security concerns.

Riyadh Calls for Diplomatic Solutions

Despite the warnings toward the Houthis, MBS said Saudi Arabia remains committed to diplomatic efforts.

He said the kingdom is making every possible effort to de-escalate tensions and support diplomatic solutions.

However, he stressed that such efforts would not involve compromising Saudi Arabia's security.

The position reflects Riyadh's stated approach of combining diplomatic engagement with preparations to respond to threats against the kingdom.

Saudi Arabia Addresses Red Sea Attacks

MBS also addressed Houthi attacks against vessels operating in the Red Sea and around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

He rejected the use of international waterways as a means of applying political or economic pressure.

According to MBS, a multinational defensive maritime coalition has been established to protect common interests and maintain security in international waterways.

The Red Sea remains a strategically important shipping route connecting the Indian Ocean with the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal.

Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia

The comments come amid increased Houthi attacks involving Saudi Arabia.

Saudi authorities said they recently intercepted six ballistic missiles aimed at areas including Taif and the Yanbu port region on the Red Sea.

The Houthis also claimed to have targeted what they called a sensitive site in Riyadh and facilities belonging to Saudi oil company Saudi Aramco in Yanbu.

The claims and reported interception details represent statements from the respective sides, while the broader conflict continues to develop.

Pakistan Signals Support Under Defense Pact

Pakistan has also addressed the escalating situation.

Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif said Islamabad would make “whatever means” available to Saudi Arabia under the countries' mutual defense agreement if Houthi attacks against the kingdom continue.

The statement highlights the potential regional significance of the Saudi-Pakistani defense relationship.

The trilateral Saudi Arabia-Türkiye-Pakistan agreement could also become an important part of regional security coordination if attacks continue.

Red Sea Security Remains a Regional Concern

The latest developments underline the strategic importance of the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb.

Attacks on commercial shipping can affect international trade and energy transportation because vessels using the route connect markets in Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia has sought to balance military preparedness with diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.

MBS's latest remarks indicate that Riyadh intends to continue both approaches while emphasizing that attacks against Saudi territory will receive a firm response.

Key Points

  • MBS said Saudi Arabia will not compromise on its security.
  • He accused the Houthis of choosing “chaos and destruction.”
  • Saudi Arabia said it will respond firmly to threats or attacks against the kingdom.
  • MBS said Riyadh will continue seeking diplomatic solutions and de-escalation.
  • He highlighted the Saudi Arabia-Türkiye-Pakistan Mecca Joint Defence Agreement.
  • MBS rejected using international waterways for political or economic pressure.
  • He said a multinational defensive maritime coalition is protecting shared interests in international waters.
  • Saudi Arabia recently said it intercepted six ballistic missiles targeting areas including Taif and Yanbu.
  • The Houthis claimed attacks on a target in Riyadh and Saudi Aramco facilities in Yanbu.
  • Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif said Islamabad would support Saudi Arabia under the mutual defense pact if Houthi attacks continue.
  • The Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait remain key areas of regional security concern.

Source

This article is based on remarks by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during the opening of the third year of the ninth session of the Saudi Shura Council, along with statements from Saudi and Pakistani officials regarding Houthi attacks and regional defense cooperation.