AAPL Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
Gold
Saudi Arabia $1 billion offer to Houthis?
Saudi Arabia has reportedly offered $1 billion to Yemen’s Houthis to stop attacks. The report follows talks between Saudi, Pakistani, Turkish and Iranian officials.
Saudi Arabia Reportedly Offers Houthis Rs.1 Billion to Stop Attacks
Saudi Arabia has reportedly offered Rs.1 billion to Yemen’s Houthi rebels in exchange for stopping attacks on Saudi territory. The report was published by Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom on October 26.
According to the report, the proposed deal could involve Iran helping Saudi Arabia reach an agreement with the Houthis. The money would reportedly help pay government workers in areas controlled by the Houthis and rebuild damaged public facilities. However, Saudi Arabia has not officially confirmed the reported $1 billion offer.
Why Is Saudi Arabia Seeking a Deal With the Houthis?
Saudi Arabia has supported Yemen’s internationally recognised government in its conflict with the Houthi rebels. The Houthis control large parts of Yemen, including the capital, Sanaa.
Iran is a key supporter of the Houthis and has been accused of providing the group with military assistance. In recent weeks, Houthi attacks on Saudi airports and oil facilities have increased tensions in the region. Saudi Arabia is now involved in diplomatic talks to reduce the threat.
Iran could play an important role in these efforts because of its close ties with the Houthis.
Saudi Defence Minister Visits Tehran for Talks
On October 26, Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman visited Tehran, Iran, along with Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Türkiye’s intelligence chief, Ibrahim Kalin. The delegation met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and other senior officials.
The meeting focused on regional security and efforts to reduce tensions. The reported $1 billion offer was also linked to these discussions by Israel Hayom.
One source claimed the Saudi minister had even brought the money to Iran aboard a Hercules military transport aircraft. A Saudi official did not confirm that any money had been transferred.
What Would the Houthis Have to Do in Return?
Under the reported proposal, the Houthis would have to maintain a ceasefire and stop attacking Saudi Arabia. The reported financial support could help pay public-sector workers in areas under Houthi control and rebuild damaged civilian facilities.
The Houthis have previously accused Saudi Arabia of failing to honour earlier understandings related to financial support and a possible settlement.
Egypt Also Approves Military Support for Saudi Arabia
Egypt has also taken a step to support Saudi Arabia.
On October 26, Egypt’s parliament authorised President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to take necessary measures to help defend Saudi Arabia if the kingdom requests military assistance. Egyptian officials said the support would focus on defending Saudi territory and would not involve attacking Yemen.
The decision comes as regional countries look for ways to respond to the growing conflict and prevent further attacks.