Maldives condemns Houthi attacks as violation of Saudi sovereignty

The Maldivian government has strongly condemned the Houthi group’s attacks on civilian and economic facilities in several southern cities of Saudi Arabia.

In a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry, the government said the strikes in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran injured a number of civilians, including women and children. The Maldives described the attacks as a blatant violation of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a serious threat to regional peace, security and stability.

The statement said the Government and people of Maldives stand firmly with the Government and people of Saudi Arabia during this difficult time. The Maldives also reaffirmed its full support for all measures taken by Saudi Arabia to safeguard its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the safety and security of its people.

Saudi officials have also condemned the attacks. Major General Turki al-Maliki, spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition, described the strikes as dangerous and a direct assault on Saudi sovereignty, adding that the coalition would take all necessary steps in response.

Saudi Arabia’s Energy Ministry said several power facilities in the southern region were targeted early Tuesday, causing fires and temporarily halting some operations.

The latest escalation comes amid renewed tensions in Yemen’s long-running civil conflict.