Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman and Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto discussed steps to advance military and defense cooperation between the two countries.
During the phone call on Tuesday, the ministers discussed the scope of defense cooperation and steps that could be taken to strengthen the partnership in this field.
Attacks in Yemen and regional security
The ministers also assessed current developments in the region, shared security challenges and efforts to address them. Efforts to support regional and international security and stability were also among the topics discussed.
The phone call took place as Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia from Yemen were increasing. The Houthis announced last July that they had declared a “naval blockade” against Saudi Arabia; they later claimed responsibility for ballistic missile and drone attacks targeting sites in Saudi Arabia and ships.
Saudi Arabia’s Yemen policy and the Strait of Hormuz
Saudi Arabia has led the coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government since March 2015. The Houthis have controlled the capital, Sana’a, and several Yemeni provinces since September 2014.
At the time of the talks, negotiations between the United States and Iran were stalled because of disputes over maritime transport through the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the key routes for global energy and goods shipments.