Saudi Arabia warns Gulf security inseparable from global stability amid regional tensions
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister told the UN that escalating Middle East threats endanger global stability, energy security and trade, urging stronger international cooperation to protect Gulf States and vital shipping routes.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan warned at the UN General Assembly that rising regional tensions threaten international peace, energy security and global trade, emphasizing that Gulf security is inseparable from global stability. He highlighted ongoing threats to Gulf States, including what Saudi Arabia described as Iranian attacks on security and economic infrastructure, and called for collective action to address these risks. The Foreign Minister stressed that freedom of navigation in critical waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb Strait is essential for global trade and must not be used as a tool of pressure.
The Foreign Minister reiterated Saudi Arabia’s right to defend its sovereignty, citizens and resources while advocating for de-escalation efforts led by countries including Qatar and Pakistan. He also emphasized the need for comprehensive regional security arrangements and called for the elimination of weapons of mass destruction in the region, with peaceful nuclear programs subject to international oversight. Additionally, he condemned attacks on civilians in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and reiterated support for a two-State solution based on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital.
On Yemen, Prince Faisal bin Farhan called for a political solution to restore stability and alleviate suffering, noting Saudi Arabia’s provision of over $29 billion in humanitarian and development assistance. He condemned Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and commercial vessels, urging the international community to reject actions threatening navigation in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The Foreign Minister highlighted Saudi Vision 2030’s achievements and argued that energy security and climate action should complement rather than compete with each other. He called for inclusive energy transitions and pointed to Saudi investments in renewable energy, clean hydrogen and carbon capture technologies. He also emphasized the need for responsible international cooperation on artificial intelligence, citing Saudi initiatives on AI ethics and capacity-building.