Saudi Arabia Expresses Concern over US and British Air Strikes in Yemen, Calls for Restraint

RIYADH - Saudi Arabia has expressed "great concern" over the recent air strikes conducted by the United States and the United Kingdom on neighboring Yemen. In a statement issued by the foreign ministry on Friday, Saudi Arabia urged against escalation and called for self-restraint.

Saudi Arabia, which has in recent months engaged in peace talks with Yemen's Houthis, was closely monitoring the situation with "great concern," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

The statement emphasized the importance of maintaining security and stability in the Red Sea region, highlighting the crucial role of freedom of navigation in that area.

On Thursday night, US and British forces launched air strikes targeting Iran-backed Houthi positions in Yemen. The action was described as a defensive measure following attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea.

Reports from Western media indicated that fighter jets and Tomahawk missiles were used to strike several Houthi positions.

US President Joe Biden stated that he would not hesitate to order further military action if necessary. He explained that these strikes were conducted with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands as a direct response to unprecedented attacks by the Houthis. This includes their use of anti-ship ballistic missiles for the first time in history.

Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry statement reflects its concerns regarding these military operations taking place near its borders. The country calls for restraint to prevent further escalation of tensions in Yemen.