Jeddah — Muhammad Amanullah | September 16, 2026
The Saudi Cabinet has strongly condemned recent attacks by the Houthi militia targeting civilians and civilian and economic infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, reaffirming the kingdom’s position that it has the right to take necessary measures to protect its security, sovereignty and national interests.
The Cabinet meeting was chaired by Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah. During the meeting, the government condemned Houthi attacks against civilian targets in several parts of Saudi Arabia and stressed that the kingdom would take all necessary steps to protect its territory, citizens, residents and national interests.
Civilian Targets Hit in Southern Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Cabinet described attacks targeting civilians and civilian and economic facilities as serious acts.
Recent attacks have particularly affected areas in southern Saudi Arabia, including Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran.
According to Saudi authorities, several civilians were injured in the attacks, while residential buildings, vehicles and other civilian property were also damaged.
Authorities have directed relevant agencies to provide medical care and assistance to those injured in the attacks.
Saudi Arabia Reaffirms Right to Self-Defence
The Cabinet also emphasized Saudi Arabia’s right to defend itself.
The Saudi government maintains that the kingdom has a legitimate right under the UN Charter and international law to protect its security and sovereignty.
The Cabinet stressed that protecting the state’s security, territorial integrity, citizens and residents, as well as safeguarding national assets, are principles that cannot be compromised.
No Compromise on National Security
During the meeting, the Saudi government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the kingdom’s territory and national resources from attacks that could threaten its security or sovereignty.
Saudi authorities said attacks targeting civilian populations and critical facilities not only put lives at risk but can also contribute to greater regional tensions and instability.
The government said it would continue taking measures necessary to protect the kingdom and its people.
Rising Tensions in the Region
The Houthi attacks have once again highlighted tensions along the border areas between Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
Reports in recent days have indicated missile and drone attacks targeting several areas in southern Saudi Arabia.
On September 12, a Houthi attack in the Jazan region injured two people and caused damage to a mosque, several buildings and vehicles.
Saudi Civil Defence described attacks against civilian property as violations of international humanitarian law.
Protection of Civilians Remains a Priority
The Saudi Cabinet described protecting citizens and residents as a fundamental responsibility of the state and instructed relevant authorities to continue taking necessary measures.
The government also emphasized the importance of providing medical assistance to people injured in the attacks.
Saudi authorities said there would be no negligence or compromise when it comes to protecting the kingdom’s security and its population.
Saudi Arabia Cites International Law
Saudi Arabia has linked its right to self-defence to international law, saying it can take necessary measures within the legal framework to protect its sovereignty, territorial integrity and civilian population.
The kingdom has previously expressed the same position in response to Houthi attacks.
In August, Riyadh welcomed a United Nations Security Council condemnation of Houthi attacks and reaffirmed its right to defend its territory, citizens and facilities.
Calls for Regional Peace and Stability
The Cabinet also reviewed regional and international developments during the meeting.
While reaffirming its commitment to protecting Saudi Arabia’s security and sovereignty, the government also stressed the importance of international cooperation, dialogue and joint efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
Saudi Arabia has maintained that sustainable regional peace requires efforts to reduce tensions and discourage actions that put civilian populations and critical infrastructure at risk.
Riyadh Sends a Clear Message
The latest Cabinet meeting sends a clear message that Riyadh considers Houthi attacks a direct threat to Saudi national security, sovereignty and civilian safety.
The Saudi government has once again emphasized that it considers itself entitled under international law to take necessary measures to defend the kingdom and protect its citizens, territory and national assets.
