Saudi Arabia calls for lasting regional peace at Manama Dialogue

MANAMA — Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khereiji reaffirmed the Kingdom's commitment to regional security and diplomatic solutions to ongoing conflicts, condemning continued Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia and Yemen during the 22nd Manama Dialogue conference in Bahrain.Speaking at a session titled "The Consequences of Transformative Regional Conflict," Al-Khereiji stressed the urgent need to contain crises and strengthen regional security and stability amid expanding conflicts and worsening humanitarian suffering.He warned of the consequences of regional instability for maritime security, energy supplies and the global economy, emphasizing the importance of protecting countries and their populations while pursuing political settlements that address the root causes of conflicts and prevent their recurrence.Al-Khereiji said Saudi Arabia's foreign policy is based on the firm conviction that its national security is closely linked to the stability of its regional surroundings and that sustainable peace is essential for development and prosperity.He explained that the Kingdom is strengthening its capabilities to protect its security and sovereignty in accordance with international law while intensifying diplomatic efforts to resolve crises based on respect for state sovereignty, good neighborly relations and noninterference in internal affairs."Saudi Arabia continues its diplomatic efforts, in coordination with brotherly nations and partners, to reduce escalation and resolve differences through peaceful means in a way that preserves the region's security and stability," he said.Addressing developments in Yemen, Al-Khereiji reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's continued support for the internationally recognized Yemeni government and efforts to reach a comprehensive political settlement that preserves Yemen's unity and security.He condemned the continued escalation by the Houthi militia against Yemen and its people, as well as against Saudi Arabia, particularly attacks targeting civilian facilities and threats to maritime navigation.Al-Khereiji said the Houthis were seeking to undermine de-escalation efforts and diplomatic initiatives aimed at reaching a political settlement to the Yemeni crisis, while expanding the conflict and obstructing opportunities to restore regional security and stability.He also highlighted the importance of strengthening countries' resilience in the face of regional crises.In this context, he said Saudi Arabia is developing its defense capabilities, protecting critical infrastructure and vital facilities, enhancing cybersecurity and ensuring the continuity of essential services.These efforts are accompanied by closer coordination among Gulf countries and the expansion of the Kingdom's defense partnerships, he added.Concluding his remarks, Al-Khereiji reaffirmed that Saudi Arabia, under the directives of its leadership, continues to work with regional and international partners to establish a regional security framework based on stable states and just political settlements.He emphasized that these efforts aim to safeguard the right of the region's peoples to security, development and prosperity.