India Voices Support for Saudi Arabia Amid Houthi Attacks
India's Solidarity with Saudi Arabia
Photo: IANS
United Nations, Oct 16: India has shown its support for Saudi Arabia, which is currently enduring a series of assaults by Houthi forces, resulting in the death of an Indian national.
During a Security Council open debate on the Middle East, India's Permanent Representative, P. Harish, stated, “India stands firmly with the Saudi government and its people in defending their sovereignty.”
He expressed concern over the rising tensions in the region, describing it as a significant challenge for the global community. “We urge for restraint and de-escalation,” he added.
While not directly naming the Houthis, Harish condemned the recent strikes on civilian facilities, including airports in Saudi Arabia, which have resulted in tragic losses, including that of Mr. Mohammad Yousef Ali, an Indian citizen.
Ali, an IT professional from Hyderabad, tragically lost his life during an attack at Riyadh airport while on a pilgrimage.
The Houthis, a formidable Yemeni rebel faction backed by Iran, are engaged in conflict with Yemen's internationally recognized government and have extended their hostilities into Saudi Arabia.
Harish reiterated India's steadfast commitment to Yemen's unity and territorial integrity, opposing any external interference in its domestic matters.
With the Strait of Hormuz already a conflict zone affecting shipping and energy supplies, the Houthis have now escalated tensions in the Red Sea.
He emphasized that safeguarding the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Southern Red Sea is a collective international duty and of global significance. “We denounce attacks on maritime navigation and the seafarers, many of whom are Indian,” he concluded.