Saudi Arabia Vows to Defend Its Territory as Houthi Militia Attacks Escalate

JEDDAH: Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman chaired a Cabinet session in Jeddah, where the government reviewed regional developments, international engagements and a range of economic and strategic initiatives.

At the outset of the session, the Crown Prince briefed the Cabinet on his recent talks with Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

The discussions focused on Saudi Arabia’s bilateral relations with the three countries and ways to further strengthen cooperation across various fields.

Saudi Arabia Condemns Houthi Militia Attacks

According to a statement issued by Saudi Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary following the session, the Cabinet reviewed the latest regional developments and condemned what it described as criminal attacks by the Houthi militia.

The Cabinet said the Houthi militia had carried out attacks against civilian and economic facilities in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran, while also continuing to target commercial vessels in the Red Sea and threatening freedom of international maritime navigation.

Saudi Arabia reaffirmed that it would continue to defend its sovereignty, protect its citizens and residents, and safeguard its national assets.

The Cabinet also rejected what it described as the hostile and criminal conduct of the Houthi militia, warning that such actions threaten the stability of Yemen and the wider Arab and Islamic region.

Authorities were directed to provide the highest levels of medical care to those injured in the attacks, while prayers were offered for their speedy recovery and for the continued security and stability of the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia Backs Arab Efforts for Palestine

The Cabinet also reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for joint Arab efforts to halt Israeli violations and attacks against Jerusalem and the occupied Palestinian territories.

The Kingdom expressed support for efforts to confront Israeli actions in Palestine and oppose expansionist policies, settlement activities and the displacement of Palestinians, which Saudi Arabia described as violations of international law.

Saudi Arabia reiterated its commitment to regional diplomatic efforts aimed at protecting Palestinian rights and promoting peace and stability.

Strengthening International Cooperation

The Cabinet reviewed the outcomes of Saudi Arabia’s participation in regional and international meetings.

It highlighted the Kingdom’s continued efforts to strengthen communication with countries and international organisations and enhance multilateral coordination to address global challenges, promote development and support economic prosperity.

The Cabinet also welcomed a memorandum of understanding signed by the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and Germany to establish a strategic dialogue aimed at strengthening consultation, coordination and bilateral cooperation.

Hajj and Umrah Sector Development

The Cabinet praised the successful conclusion of the 26th Scientific Forum for Hajj, Umrah and Visit Research.

The government said the forum contributed to improving integration among institutions involved in the Hajj and Umrah system, strengthening coordination and partnerships, and improving services provided to pilgrims.

It also highlighted the role of scientific research in supporting proactive decision-making and enhancing the overall experience of visitors to the Kingdom.

LEAP 2026 Investments Near $15 Billion

The Cabinet also reviewed the outcomes of LEAP 2026, where initiatives, agreements and investments worth nearly $15 billion were announced.

The investments cover artificial intelligence infrastructure, data centres, cloud computing, technology manufacturing, venture capital and national capacity development.

The Cabinet said these developments further reinforce Saudi Arabia’s position as a global destination for innovation, technology and investment.

Water Industry Localisation

The Cabinet also described the launch of new investment projects under the Water Industries and Services Localization Program as an important step in developing the Kingdom’s domestic water technology sector.

The programme aims to shift the sector from importing and operating technologies toward developing, manufacturing and exporting them.

The government said Saudi Arabia’s accumulated operational expertise and integrated infrastructure could help create stronger supply chains and establish a competitive water industry capable of contributing to the national economy and international markets.

New Bilateral Agreements Approved

The Cabinet approved several agreements and memorandums of understanding during the session.

These included an agreement between Saudi Arabia and Spain on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special and service passports.

The Cabinet also approved an agreement with Switzerland on the promotion and reciprocal protection of investments.

In addition, the governor of the Saudi Central Bank, or an authorised deputy, was authorised to negotiate and sign a draft memorandum of understanding with Bank Indonesia on cooperation in central banking activities.

The Cabinet also approved an MoU between the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language and the Muslim World League to strengthen cooperation in promoting and serving the Arabic language.