Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived in Washington on Monday for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as fighting between Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces and the Iran-aligned Houthi movement intensifies. The discussions are expected to cover Saudi-US bilateral relations, regional security and wider international developments.
The visit comes amid the most intense fighting in Yemen since 2022, with the conflict increasingly affecting Saudi security and regional stability. Houthi forces have launched attacks towards Saudi Arabia, while Riyadh continues to support Yemen’s internationally recognised government.
Saudi Arabia has sought greater US military assistance against the Houthis. Washington has declined requests for direct strikes but has agreed to provide intelligence and targeting support, according to Reuters.
The talks come as Gulf security, maritime navigation and the wider regional conflict remain key concerns for Washington and Riyadh. Saudi Arabia has also received defensive support from Britain amid the escalating Houthi threat.
