Saudi Foreign Minister Warns of Global Houthi Threat Following Missile Attacks

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan warned on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York that the threat posed by the Iran-backed Houthis extends far beyond Yemen's borders and endangers global security. The remarks followed an announcement by the Saudi-led coalition that its air defenses had intercepted six ballistic missiles launched toward the cities of Taif and Yanbu. The Foreign Minister emphasized that protecting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and Red Sea shipping routes is a responsibility shared by the entire international community. While noting ongoing coordination with Washington, he stated that Riyadh is actively defending itself and responding to Houthi attacks. This comes amid reports that the Trump administration has declined repeated Saudi requests for direct military intervention against the group. Recent Houthi territorial advances along Yemen's western coastline have intensified concerns regarding control over the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which is critical for international trade and Saudi oil exports.