Italy has condemned the recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani expressing solidarity with the Kingdom during a phone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Tajani emphasized Italy’s commitment to protecting civilians and infrastructure, thanking Saudi authorities for ensuring the safety of Italian citizens residing in the country.
Tajani also called for a diplomatic resolution to the Yemen crisis, advocating for continued support of United Nations efforts to achieve peace. The conversation between the ministers also covered maritime security in critical regions such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. Both officials stressed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation, securing commercial shipping routes, and enhancing security across the Gulf region.
In addition to these discussions, Tajani highlighted the significance of strengthening the European Union’s Operation Aspides, a naval mission initiated in February 2024 aimed at safeguarding shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Cabinet issued a warning to the Houthis, cautioning them about the repercussions of their continuous assaults on Saudi territories. The Cabinet reaffirmed the necessity of protecting navigation through the Red Sea and the Bab Al-Mandab Strait and praised the international Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen for its operations against the group.