(WASHINGTON, DC) - Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal today addressed the 26th session of Majlis Al-Shura (Consultative Council) and stated that Saudi Arabia, along with its Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) allies and international partners, is committed to reaching a peaceful, diplomatic solution in Yemen. Prince Saud affirmed the continuation of Operation Decisive Storm to defend the legitimate government until Yemen is a safe, secure and stable nation.

“The Houthi militia and agents of the former president – supported by Iran – insist on meddling in Yemen, re-shuffling the cards, robbing the Yemeni will, waging a coup against the government’s constitutional legitimacy, and rejecting all peaceful solutions,” said Prince Saud.

Prince Saud reiterated that the security of Yemen is an essential aspect of the security of the Gulf region. He stated, “The coalition to defend the legitimacy of Yemen enjoyed wide blessing and comprehensive support from our Arab and Islamic nation and the world.”

Prince Saud also expressed concern in regards to the recent developments in Syria and Iraq, calling both situations “humanitarian tragedies.” Prince Saud reiterated the Kingdom’s support for the people suffering in these countries and the efforts needed to end the conflicts. 

On Iran, Prince Saud stated, “We are not going to condemn or discharge Iran, but we will test its intentions, by extending our hands to it as a Muslim neighbor in order to open a new page, and if we may have the right to consider Iran as a country of civilization - and we do - it should, out of duty, promote security and peace in the region rather than destabilize it.”