Saudi Arabia Stresses Importance of Maritime Security, Energy Flows at UN Meeting

Vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, Musandam, Oman, May 15, 2026. (Reuters)
Vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, Musandam, Oman, May 15, 2026. (Reuters)
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Saudi Arabia Stresses Importance of Maritime Security, Energy Flows at UN Meeting

Vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, Musandam, Oman, May 15, 2026. (Reuters)
Vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, Musandam, Oman, May 15, 2026. (Reuters)

Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations Dr. Abdulaziz Alwasil stressed on Friday the Kingdom’s commitment to global market stability, sustainable development, and ensuring reliable energy flows to support the global economy.

Speaking at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Special Meeting on “Safeguarding energy and supply flows: Supporting global development through international cooperation,” he underlined the critical importance of protecting maritime routes and freedom of navigation, specifically in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, as pillars of international supply chains.

He condemned attacks on energy infrastructure and civilian facilities that threaten maritime transit.

He also highlighted draft resolution 2817, submitted by Bahrain to protect navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, noting its broad support as a vital step toward regional stability.

Moreover, he underscored the need for reliable, affordable energy access to combat energy poverty, particularly in developing countries. He called for an integrated international approach that fosters innovation and cooperation.



GCC: Attacks on Makkah a Serious Escalation Threatening Regional Stability

Parts of the intercepted missiles fell in Wadi Al-Mughammas in Makkah. (SPA)
Parts of the intercepted missiles fell in Wadi Al-Mughammas in Makkah. (SPA)
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GCC: Attacks on Makkah a Serious Escalation Threatening Regional Stability

Parts of the intercepted missiles fell in Wadi Al-Mughammas in Makkah. (SPA)
Parts of the intercepted missiles fell in Wadi Al-Mughammas in Makkah. (SPA)

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi on Sunday strongly condemned the Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, describing any threat to Makkah as a serious escalation that jeopardizes regional security and stability.

His remarks followed the interception of two ballistic missiles, debris from which fell in Wadi al-Mughammas in the Makkah region. Shrapnel from the interceptions also fell in parts of Jeddah, Taif and Rabigh, according to the report.

Albudaiwi said the attacks demonstrated disregard for civilian lives and safety, stressing that Saudi Arabia’s security was integral to the security of all GCC member states.

He added that GCC member states stand united with Saudi Arabia in confronting the attacks and supported measures taken by the kingdom to protect its territory and safeguard the security of citizens and residents.

He praised the efficiency and vigilance of Saudi air defenses in intercepting the Houthi attacks and called on the international community to take a firm stance and effective measures to put an end to them.


Saudi Foreign Minister, Greek Counterpart Discuss Regional Developments

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi Foreign Minister, Greek Counterpart Discuss Regional Developments

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah received a phone call from his Greek counterpart, George Gerapetritis, during which they discussed bilateral relations and regional developments, the Saudi Press Agency said on Saturday.

The call also addressed efforts to enhance cooperation between the two countries and reviewed issues of mutual interest.


Coalition: Air Defenses Destroy Ballistic Missile Launched by Houthis Toward Riyadh

Official Spokesperson for the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen Major General Turki Al-Malki. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Official Spokesperson for the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen Major General Turki Al-Malki. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Coalition: Air Defenses Destroy Ballistic Missile Launched by Houthis Toward Riyadh

Official Spokesperson for the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen Major General Turki Al-Malki. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Official Spokesperson for the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen Major General Turki Al-Malki. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Official Spokesperson for the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen Major General Turki Al-Malki said on Sunday that air defenses intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched by the terrorist Houthi militia toward Riyadh.

A drone was also intercepted and destroyed in the Riyadh Region, he added.

The interceptions were preceded by an early warning from the Saudi Civil Defense.