India on Wednesday strongly condemned the recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, particularly the strikes on civilian and economic infrastructure, and called the actions unacceptable.
Responding to a media query, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India condemned the attacks on Saudi sovereign territory, especially the targeting of civilian and economic facilities.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Issue/Event: India condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia
Location: Saudi Arabia / Bab-el-Mandeb region
Authority/Organisation: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
Action Taken: India issued a strong diplomatic condemnation of the attacks
Impact: Growing concerns over regional stability, maritime security and global energy supplies
India also expressed concern over the wider implications of the attacks for regional security and maritime movement. The MEA said such actions undermine regional stability and threaten freedom of navigation through the Bab-el-Mandeb, one of the world's key maritime chokepoints.
The Indian statement came after Houthi forces launched missiles and drones at several locations in southwestern Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities said the attacks affected areas including Abha, Jazan, Khamis Mushait and Najran.
The attacks caused casualties and fires, with 73 people reported injured, including women and children, according to reporting on the Saudi response. Oil and other economic infrastructure was also targeted, adding to concerns over regional energy security.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The Indian response is significant because the attacks are not limited to the immediate conflict zone. Threats to the Bab-el-Mandeb could affect one of the world's major shipping corridors, potentially increasing pressure on global trade and energy markets. The attacks also come as crude oil prices have surged above $100 a barrel amid escalating tensions across the region.
Saudi Arabia subsequently lifted a security alert in Khamis Mushait after the attacks. The strikes are among the most significant Houthi attacks on Saudi territory since the wider regional conflict escalated earlier this year.
India's condemnation comes at a time when tensions across West Asia are already affecting energy markets and international shipping. Brent crude has crossed the $100-per-barrel mark, while concerns over disruptions around major maritime routes continue to grow.
The Bab-el-Mandeb Strait is particularly significant for international trade because it connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and provides an important route for vessels travelling between the Indian Ocean and the Suez Canal.
Any prolonged disruption in the area could therefore have consequences beyond the immediate conflict, affecting shipping costs, energy supplies and global trade.
