South Korea called for an end to Houthi attacks targeting civilian and economic facilities in southern Saudi Arabia. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry condemned the latest attacks in a statement on Monday.
The ministry said attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure could not be justified under any circumstances. It added that actions endangering freedom and safety of navigation were also unacceptable.
Seoul announced that it stood in “deep solidarity” with Saudi Arabia. The statement urged the Houthis to refrain from steps that could further escalate regional tensions.
Red Sea and energy security
South Korea’s Foreign Ministry highlighted the importance of stability in the Middle East and safe navigation in the Red Sea for the international community. It said both issues were critical to global supply chains and energy security.
The Iran-backed Houthis have recently intensified attacks using missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles against cities and energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. These attacks caused damage to civilians and economic facilities. The Houthis have also targeted commercial vessels in the Red Sea.
Conflict continues in Yemen
Fighting continues on several fronts in Yemen between government forces backed by Riyadh and the Houthis. Concerns have grown that the conflict could once again develop into a full-scale war after the relatively calm period observed since April 2022.
Yemen has been affected by war for approximately 12 years since the Houthis seized the capital, Sanaa, in 2014. Saudi Arabia announced its mission to form an international maritime alliance in July.