Iran, Saudi Arabia discuss regional 'insecurity' as Yemen fighting flares
Summary
Iran and Saudi Arabia’s top diplomats spoke by phone about rising regional tensions as fighting flared in Yemen. The Houthis, backed by Tehran, seized the strategic Red Sea port city of Mocha and launched fresh attacks in southern Saudi Arabia.
Key Points
- Iran and Saudi Arabia discussed “growing insecurity” in the region in a phone call between Abbas Araghchi and Faisal bin Farhan.
- Tehran backs Yemen’s Houthis, while Riyadh supports Yemen’s internationally recognised government and has carried out airstrikes against the group.
- The Houthis seized the strategic Red Sea port city of Mocha and pushed toward the Bab al-Mandab strait.
- The Saudi-led coalition said the Houthis fired ballistic missiles and drones at several cities in southern Saudi Arabia.