Saudi defence pact countries push for peace in Tehran as Houthis launch more attacks
USO•Officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan met Iranian officials in Tehran to seek de-escalation, while the Houthis said they attacked Saudi energy and transport targets. Egypt's parliament authorised military support to help defend Saudi Arabia.
1. Talks seek de-escalation
Officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan met Iranian officials in Tehran on Monday, aiming to de-escalate the regional conflict. The Saudi Foreign Ministry said the visit was intended to open negotiating channels to prevent a return to military escalation. Iranian state media said the four states agreed to continue talks on cooperation, especially in peace and security.
2. Proposal and regional agenda
A Pakistani official said army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir presented Iran with a proposed solution to the conflict, with the Mecca pact countries and Qatar potentially acting as guarantors if it were accepted. The agenda included US-Iran talks, Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, the Strait of Hormuz and a US blockade of Iranian ports.
3. Attacks and defence support
The Houthis said they attacked pumping stations on Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline and Riyadh airport; there was no immediate Saudi confirmation. Egypt's parliament authorised its military to help defend Saudi Arabia. Pakistan approved the Mecca mutual defence pact last week, while Turkey's parliamentary ratification process is under way.
