In a recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Qatar has condemned attacks by Houthi forces on civilian and economic sites in southern Saudi Arabia. The incidents, which left 73 civilians injured, including women and children, have been described by Qatar as a severe breach of Saudi sovereignty and international law. The attacks also temporarily impacted some energy facilities, further heightening concerns about regional stability.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, expressed his country’s strong disapproval of the attacks during a phone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. In their dialogue, the two officials reiterated Qatar’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia and its support for any measures the Kingdom might take to safeguard its security. They also discussed broader regional developments and diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions.
The areas targeted by the Houthi attacks included Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, and Najran. These aggressive actions by the Houthis, who maintain control over Sanaa and extensive parts of northern Yemen, have intensified concerns over a potential widening of the ongoing conflict. In response, government-aligned forces have launched counter-offensives on Houthi-held territories.
Qatar has called upon the international community to take a stronger stance against such attacks and to support the enforcement of United Nations Security Council resolutions related to Yemen and the security of the Red Sea. The situation underscores the fragile balance in the region, where increased Houthi assaults on Saudi territory and vessels in the Red Sea have escalated in recent weeks.