Saudi Arabia: Gulf Security Is an Integral Part of Global Security
New York – (KUNA): Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan affirmed that the security of the Arabian Gulf region is an integral part of the security of the region and the world, noting that its stability is directly linked to global energy security, the continuity of international trade, and the sustainability of supply chains. This statement was made during a speech delivered by Prince Faisal bin Farhan on Saturday evening at the high-level general debate of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where he reiterated the Kingdom’s right to protect its security, sovereignty, and citizens amid “brazen Iranian aggression” that the Kingdom and regional countries have suffered.
He called on the international community to shoulder its responsibilities in confronting threats to international peace and security, emphasizing that protecting international navigation and sustaining global supply chains are shared responsibilities requiring international cooperation. He stressed the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation in all international waterways, foremost among them the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden, warning against exposing the global economy to risks that affect all countries.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan called for a return to the status quo in the Strait of Hormuz as it was before February 28, and for no fees or restrictions to be imposed again. He reiterated the Kingdom’s rejection of using any party to exploit these vital waterways “as a tool for pressure, threat, or harm to the interests of countries.”
Regarding the Yemeni issue, the Saudi Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of supporting efforts aimed at reaching a comprehensive political solution that ensures Yemen’s stability, supports its economy, and alleviates the humanitarian suffering of its people. He noted that the Kingdom has provided humanitarian and developmental aid to Yemen exceeding $29 billion, making it “the highest donor of humanitarian aid to the Republic of Yemen in 2025.” He welcomed the statement by members of the UN Security Council, which included condemnation of the missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthi group against the Kingdom and commercial ships, calling on the international community to reject and condemn the group’s attacks and its threats to navigation security in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
On energy security, Prince Faisal bin Farhan affirmed that ensuring supply stability, protecting critical infrastructure, diversifying supply routes, and safeguarding freedom of navigation are shared responsibilities requiring continuous international cooperation. He noted that the Kingdom maintained the continuity of energy supplies despite disruptions in navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, thanks to its long-term investments in infrastructure.
Regarding “Saudi Vision 2030,” Prince Faisal stated that it represents a model of comprehensive national transformation based on economic diversification, investment in human capital, enhancing innovation, empowering youth and women, developing the private sector, and consolidating sustainability. He pointed out that the contribution of non-oil activities to non-oil GDP reached 55%, while the unemployment rate among Saudis declined to 6.4%.
