Iran has expressed support for a political resolution to the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthi movement, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Speaking on October 17 at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting in Baghdad, Araghchi emphasized that an inclusive and comprehensive political process remains the only practical and sustainable way to address the crisis.
The conflict, characterized by frequent attacks by the Houthis on Saudi targets, notably escalated last week when an assault on Riyadh’s international airport resulted in the deaths of 13 people. Saudi Arabia has accused Iran of encouraging the Houthis’ recent acts of aggression, allegations Tehran has denied. On October 15, Iranian officials dismissed any involvement in the attacks.
Araghchi reiterated Iran’s offer to act as a mediator between the conflicting parties, a proposal that Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said Riyadh has yet to respond to. "Either we build security together, or we will endure insecurity together," Araghchi stated, underlining Tehran’s willingness to cooperate with neighboring states to achieve regional stability.
The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, receive support from Iran and are aligned with other groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon. Together, these factions form what Tehran refers to as the "Axis of Resistance" against Israel and the United States, which also includes armed groups operating in Iraq.
The Saudi-Houthi conflict has caused significant humanitarian and security challenges in the region, with efforts at ceasefires and negotiations repeatedly faltering. Iran’s call for dialogue, while welcomed by some, faces skepticism from Riyadh and its allies, who view Tehran’s role in the conflict as destabilizing.
As regional powers continue to navigate complex alliances and rivalries, the prospects for a negotiated settlement remain uncertain. The OIC meeting provided a platform for Iran to highlight the importance of dialogue, but substantive progress will depend on the willingness of all parties, including Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, to engage in meaningful negotiations.