**Saudi Arabia Stands Firm on Security Amid Houthi Attacks, Says Crown Prince MBS**
*Published: September 30, 2026*
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has reaffirmed the kingdom's commitment to its national security in light of ongoing threats from the Houthi armed group. In a speech delivered on behalf of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud during the opening of the third year of the ninth session of the Shura Council, MBS characterized the actions of the Houthis as a choice for "chaos and destruction," which he claims endangers both the Yemeni populace and regional stability.
The Crown Prince emphasized that Saudi Arabia will not hesitate to respond decisively to any threats or attacks aimed at undermining its security. He highlighted the recent trilateral Mecca Joint Defence Agreement with Turkiye and Pakistan, formalized in August, as a testament to the kingdom's dedication to enhancing regional stability. This alliance aims to shield the region from the repercussions of ongoing tensions and conflicts while coordinating defensive efforts.
MBS also noted that, despite the aggressive stance taken by the Houthis, Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing diplomatic avenues to de-escalate tensions. He stated that the kingdom is making "every possible effort" to support peaceful resolutions without compromising its security.
A significant concern raised by the Crown Prince was the recent targeting of vessels by the Houthis in the Red Sea, particularly around the Bab al-Mandeb strait. He condemned the use of international waterways as instruments for political or economic leverage and announced the formation of a "multinational defensive maritime coalition." This coalition is intended to safeguard common interests in international waters and ensure maritime security.
Recent weeks have seen an uptick in Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia, as the group continues its conflict with Yemen's internationally recognized government, which is backed by Riyadh. Notably, last week, Saudi air defenses intercepted six ballistic missiles aimed at the cities of Taif and the Yanbu port area along the Red Sea. The Houthis have also claimed responsibility for attacks on a "sensitive target" in Riyadh and on facilities belonging to Saudi Aramco in Yanbu.
In a related development, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif expressed Islamabad's readiness to support Saudi Arabia under the mutual defense pact, should Houthi assaults on the kingdom persist. This statement underscores the growing international dimension of the conflict and the potential for further military collaboration in the region.
As tensions escalate, Saudi Arabia's leadership remains resolute in its commitment to national security while also seeking diplomatic solutions to the ongoing crisis in Yemen. The situation continues to evolve, with regional and international implications that could affect stability in the Middle East for the foreseeable future.