The Uzbek Foreign Ministry in a statement expressed deep concern over recent missile and drone strikes targeting Saudi Arabia.
"We strongly condemn any actions involving the use of force against civilians, civil infrastructure, and energy facilities, as well as threats to regional security and international shipping lanes," the ministry statement read. "We believe it is essential to strictly adhere to international law, including the principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. differences must be resolved solely through political and diplomatic channels, rooted in dialogue and mutual respect. Furthermore, we support the efforts of the United Nations and regional states to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, prevent further expansion of the conflict, and establish lasting peace."
The statement comes after Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched massive ballistic missile and drone strikes against southern Saudi Arabia on September 8, targeting energy and economic infrastructure in Abha, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushait. The attacks injured more than 70 people and ignited fires at oil and gas facilities in Jizan, marking one of the most severe escalations since the 2022 Saudi-Houthi truce.
Compounding the crisis, Riyadh reported several drone strikes on September 11–12 targeting the Saudi East-West Pipeline, a strategic asset connecting eastern oil fields to the Yanbu port on the Red Sea. Saudi authorities stated the drones were launched from Iraq, resulting in injuries and pipeline damage. Riyadh announced it would temporarily withhold military retaliation to allow Baghdad the opportunity to take action. The pipeline serves as a critical alternative route for exporting Saudi crude via the Red Sea, bypassing the volatile Strait of Hormuz. The regional escalation continues to pose heightened risks to international shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
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