BRUSSELS: Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia unacceptable, European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas said, describing the attacks as a threat to regional security and global economic activity.
Kallas made the remarks after holding a telephone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. In a post on X, she said the European Union was helping protect shipping in the Red Sea from Houthi attacks.
The two officials also discussed efforts to restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Kallas stressed that maritime passage should remain unimpeded and toll-free.
“Given the worsening security situation, EU Operation ASPIDES has raised the alert level of its vessels as it continues its escort duties,” Kallas said.
Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia Unacceptable, EU Says
The European Union has also strongly condemned the military campaign by the Houthi movement in Yemen and attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, including a reported recent attack targeting Makkah.
In a statement, an EU spokesperson said the targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure was unacceptable. The EU said such attacks undermine efforts to reach a non-military solution to the conflict in Yemen and contribute to growing regional security threats.
The European Union called on the Houthis to halt military operations and reaffirmed its support for the Yemeni people and government.
The bloc also said it would continue working with the United Nations, regional partners and the wider international community to reduce tensions and support efforts toward a comprehensive and lasting peace in Yemen.
Drone Interception Reported in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defence said its teams in Taif Governorate responded on Thursday to debris resulting from the interception and destruction of a drone launched by the Houthi movement, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
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The incident reportedly resulted in the death of a Yemeni resident, while a Saudi woman and a Pakistani resident were injured. The Pakistani national was reported to be in critical condition.
The incident also caused material damage to civilian buildings and vehicles, according to the report.
The General Directorate of Civil Defence said standard emergency procedures had been implemented in response to the incident.
EU Raises Alert Level of Operation ASPIDES
Kallas said the EU’s Operation ASPIDES had increased the alert level of its vessels amid the worsening security situation while continuing its escort duties.
The EU operation is part of European efforts to support maritime security and protect freedom of navigation in the region as tensions continue to affect major international shipping routes.
