Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi on Tuesday condemned recent statements by the Houthi militia’s military spokesman, labeling the accusations against Saudi Arabia as unfounded. In his remarks, Al-Budaiwi characterized the allegations as attempts to obscure the reality and deflect responsibility for the actions of the Houthis, which he said have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Yemen and threatened regional security and stability.

Al-Budaiwi emphasized that these claims do not diminish Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to support the Yemeni population, promote security, facilitate a political resolution, and provide humanitarian aid. He underscored the importance of maritime security and freedom of navigation as critical elements for both regional and global stability.

Highlighting concerns over recent attacks on international shipping lanes, Al-Budaiwi warned that such actions violate international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, as well as relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. He urged the international community to adopt a firm position against what he described as the Houthis’ baseless threats and to ensure effective implementation of Security Council directives aimed at safeguarding maritime navigation.

Al-Budaiwi also reaffirmed the GCC’s full support for Saudi Arabia, endorsing all measures undertaken by the Kingdom to protect its security, sovereignty, and national interests amid ongoing tensions related to the conflict in Yemen.