Turkey Stands by Saudi Arabia Amid Houthi Attacks
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Ankara is prepared to support Saudi Arabia through the Mecca Alliance amid escalating attacks by Yemen's Houthis. The alliance could provide technical assistance for military requirements, according to Fidan.
Speaking to Turkish broadcaster NTV, Fidan emphasized that Turkey stands by its alliance commitments and would honor its agreements with Riyadh. He noted that Saudi Arabia has faced serious attacks against its territorial integrity and sovereignty, and that the Mecca Alliance is closely monitoring developments in this regard.
Fidan also condemned the Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure, saying the Turkish Foreign Ministry is closely following the situation. The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan provides for collective defense in case of an armed attack against a member country, but Fidan stressed that assistance would depend on the circumstances and needs of the member under attack.
Furthermore, Fidan called for progress in US-Iran talks, stating that their success depends on the parties accepting new proposals. He expressed hope that the crisis could be de-escalated through diplomatic efforts, but warned that its economic consequences have now exceeded tolerable levels.