OIC Condemns Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia and Reaffirms Support for Riyadh

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation has condemned attacks attributed to the Houthi militia in southern Saudi Arabia, reaffirming its support for the kingdom’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity amid rising regional tensions.

OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha said targeting Saudi territory threatened the kingdom’s stability and amounted to an unacceptable escalation. He warned that continued attacks could undermine efforts to maintain a ceasefire in Yemen and advance regional and international initiatives aimed at restoring peace.

The organisation also stressed that attacks against a state’s territory conflict with international principles concerning sovereignty and territorial integrity. Its position reflects concern that continued cross-border hostilities could make a negotiated settlement of Yemen’s protracted crisis more difficult to achieve.

The secretary-general expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and supported measures taken by the kingdom to protect its national security and safeguard civilians and residents. The statement did not specify additional security measures or announce any new operational commitment by the organisation’s member states.

The OIC’s response comes against a backdrop of growing concern over the vulnerability of airports, energy infrastructure and other strategic facilities across the Gulf. Attacks involving missiles and drones can create risks for civilian populations and commercial activity even when the intended targets are military or strategic.

Saudi Arabia occupies a central position in regional energy markets and serves as a major destination for international travel and religious pilgrimage. Disruptions to its infrastructure can therefore have implications beyond its borders, making regional security cooperation an important concern for neighbouring states and international partners.

The secretary-general warned that continued escalation could obstruct efforts to reach a comprehensive and lasting political solution to Yemen’s conflict. His statement urged all relevant parties to prioritise dialogue and demonstrate a serious commitment to the peace process rather than deepen regional instability.

The OIC’s appeal highlights the tension between immediate security responses and the longer-term diplomatic work required to resolve the Yemeni crisis. Protecting civilians and critical infrastructure remains an urgent concern, but sustained de-escalation also depends on political engagement among the parties involved.

The statement did not identify a new negotiating timetable, a specific mediation initiative or measures that would guarantee a reduction in attacks. It instead reaffirmed the organisation’s established position in support of Saudi security and a political settlement in Yemen.

Whether the appeal produces concrete diplomatic progress will depend on the willingness of the parties to engage in negotiations and avoid further escalation. For the OIC, the central message is that continued attacks threaten both Saudi security and the prospects of a durable settlement to the conflict.