India condemned the Iran-backed Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia that injured more than 70 civilians, calling the actions unacceptable. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that such aggressive attacks undermine regional security and stability, threatening freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb strait, a key international maritime route, according to livemint.com.
The attacks occurred near the Saudi-Yemen border, targeting trucks at the Al-Wadiah border crossing and causing significant damage, including to a central prison in Yemen's Jawf province. The Houthis released images of the damage on September 7, 2026, highlighting the impact of their strikes. The MEA emphasized that these actions are detrimental to peace and security in the region and called for restraint from all parties involved.
The condemnation by India aligns with broader international concerns over escalating tensions in the Middle East, where Iran-backed Houthi forces have frequently targeted Saudi territory. These attacks not only cause civilian casualties but also threaten vital shipping lanes, affecting global trade. The Bab-el-Mandeb strait is a strategic chokepoint for maritime traffic, and instability there has implications for regional and international security.
India's official statement on September 9, 2026, underscores its stance against actions that destabilize the region and jeopardize civilian safety. The MEA's remarks highlight India's commitment to upholding regional security and freedom of navigation, crucial for international commerce and peace.