In response to recent escalations, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has condemned the Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, reaffirming Italy’s commitment to safeguarding civilians and infrastructure. During a phone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Tajani expressed Italy’s solidarity with the Kingdom and stressed the importance of a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing Yemen crisis, advocating for continued support of United Nations efforts.
The discussions between the two ministers also highlighted concerns over maritime security in critical areas such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. Both emphasized the need to maintain freedom of navigation and protect commercial shipping routes, underscoring the strategic importance of strengthening security across the Gulf region.
Tajani pointed out the significance of reinforcing the European Union’s Operation Aspides, a naval initiative launched in February 2024 aimed at safeguarding shipping activities in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This reflects a broader commitment to ensuring regional stability and security amidst ongoing threats.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Cabinet has issued warnings to the Houthis regarding the consequences of their repeated attacks on the Kingdom. The Cabinet also emphasized the necessity of securing navigation through the Red Sea and the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, while praising the efforts of the international Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen for its operations against the militant group.