Saudi Arabia and France condemn Houthi attacks on shipping

Saudi Arabia and France have issued a joint statement condemning Houthi militia attacks on commercial vessels and vital civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. The announcement followed a visit to France by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who met with President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysée Palace.

During the discussions, which included the first meeting of the Saudi-French Strategic Partnership Council, both nations emphasized their commitment to maintaining freedom of maritime navigation. They expressed concern that Houthi provocations exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Yemen and threaten regional stability.

Both countries reaffirmed their support for the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council and United Nations-led efforts to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable political solution to the Yemeni crisis. The visit also marked 100 years of political relations between Saudi Arabia and France, resulting in the announcement of 21 agreements and memoranda of understanding across various sectors.