Iran Offers to Mediate Saudi-Houthi Dialogue Amid Rising Regional Tensions
Iran offers to mediate dialogue between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis as regional tensions surge following a deadly attack on Riyadh's international airport, prompting strong condemnation from the R4 group.
Iran has expressed readiness to facilitate a dialogue between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis in Yemen amid escalating tensions and recent military confrontations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi conveyed the message during a phone call with his Saudi counterpart, Faisal bin Farhan, discussing regional developments and potential political solutions.
Diplomatic Contacts and Regional Reactions
According to Reuters, this marks the first publicly reported contact between the ministers since Houthi forces intensified attacks against the kingdom. Meanwhile, Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia—collectively known as the R4 group—strongly condemned the Houthi drone and missile strikes on Riyadh's international airport, labeling them an unacceptable escalation.
"A dangerous escalation that cannot be justified or accepted under any pretext," the R4 group stated in a joint declaration, affirming full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and backing its measures to neutralize threats.
Military Developments and Coalition Response
Alongside diplomatic efforts, coalition airstrikes continued against Houthi strongholds in Sanaa, Taiz, and the Bab al-Mandeb region. The Saudi-led coalition confirmed intercepting hostile projectiles near Riyadh, while military pact commitments among Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia remain under active coordination for defensive and technical assistance.