US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Wednesday that the United States will uphold its defense commitments to Saudi Arabia amidst escalating Houthi military actions. Rubio expressed concern over the ongoing conflict, noting that Saudi Arabia has faced attacks not only from the Houthis but potentially from Iranian-backed Shia militias in Iraq.
The reaffirmation of US defense commitments to Saudi Arabia signals continued American support for a key regional ally facing escalating conflict, potentially drawing the US into broader regional tensions involving Iran and its proxies.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Wednesday that the United States will uphold its defense commitments to Saudi Arabia amidst escalating Houthi military actions. Rubio expressed concern over the ongoing conflict, noting that Saudi Arabia has faced attacks not only from the Houthis but potentially from Iranian-backed Shia militias in Iraq.
Rubio made the remarks during a press conference on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York City. He told Fox News that the US "intend[s] to live up to our commitments on it. We will."
The comments come as Saudi Arabia is under a growing campaign by the Houthis, who have launched missile and drone attacks against targets in the kingdom. On Saturday, Saudi Arabia said it intercepted a ballistic missile headed towards Riyadh, while residents reported explosions and saw flames and smoke near the capital’s airport. The Houthis claimed they hit targets in Yanbu, Taif, Baysh, and Farasan as the group seized key territory along the Red Sea coast and moved toward the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. In response, Saudi Arabia has launched airstrikes as Riyadh seeks more support from its allies.
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