Qatar condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia

Qatar has vehemently condemned the recent Houthi attacks on civilian and economic targets in Saudi Arabia's Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, and Najran cities. The attacks resulted in 73 casualties, including women and children, and disrupted several energy facilities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs characterized the strikes as an egregious act of aggression and an intolerable violation of civilian lives and regional security.

It declared the attacks as flagrant breaches of Saudi Arabia's sovereignty, international law, and a dangerous escalation that threatens the region's security and stability. Qatar also criticized the Houthis' persistent targeting of commercial vessels in the Red Sea, threatening maritime navigation's safety, freedom, and security.

The Qatari ministry urged the international community to uphold its responsibilities, firmly oppose these violations, and ensure compliance with pertinent UN Security Council resolutions, especially Resolution 2216 on Yemen and Resolution 2722 on Red Sea security and navigation freedom. It emphasized that international waterways' freedom of navigation is a guaranteed right under international law and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Qatar reiterated its unwavering solidarity with Saudi Arabia and support for all measures taken by the kingdom to safeguard its sovereignty, security, territorial integrity, and interests. The attacks, reported by Reuters, triggered fires and temporarily halted operations at several energy installations in southern Saudi Arabia.

The Houthis claimed responsibility for targeting Abha International Airport, King Khalid airbase, and Saudi Aramco facilities. The attacks occurred amid escalating fighting in Yemen and Houthi attempts to extend their operations around the Bab al-Mandab strait, a critical shipping route connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

The group declared a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia in July, and since then, it has intensified attacks on Saudi ships and energy infrastructure. Qatar expressed its condolences to the injured and fervently prayed for Saudi Arabia and its people's safety.