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The Saudi Press Agency reported that UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband reaffirmed his country’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia during a telephone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan on Saturday. Miliband stressed the Kingdom’s right to take necessary measures to defend its security and resources in accordance with international law amid attacks by the Houthi militia. The discussion focused on the latest developments in the region as tensions continue to affect stability across the Middle East.
According to the agency, the two ministers also highlighted the importance of strengthening joint efforts to ensure the security and freedom of navigation in regional waterways. Such measures would contribute to regional stability and help safeguard global trade and supply chains from the repercussions of the current crisis. The call comes at a time when maritime routes face increased risks from ongoing conflicts involving Iran-backed groups.
The conversation follows Saudi Arabia’s announcement that its East-West oil pipeline was targeted by drones launched from Iraqi territory, resulting in material damage and a temporary suspension of operations as a precautionary measure, the Saudi Press Agency indicated. The incident has heightened concerns over energy infrastructure security in the Kingdom. British support underscores a long-standing partnership between the two countries in the Gulf region.
A report from Arab News detailed how the UK has consistently voiced condemnation of Iranian-backed attacks on Saudi Arabia and other regional states throughout 2026. In March the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office noted that then Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper visited Riyadh to demonstrate support for allies facing Iranian aggression. These interactions reflect sustained diplomatic engagement aimed at promoting peace and security in the area.
The UK government has previously outlined its deployment of military resources to defend partners in the Middle East from such threats according to statements from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Officials have emphasized the need for de-escalation while backing defensive actions by affected nations. The latest call between Miliband and Prince Faisal bin Farhan reinforces bilateral ties that extend to economic and strategic cooperation.
Bilateral relations between the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia have deepened in recent years across multiple sectors including trade, investment and defense as described by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The partnership has been essential for maintaining energy security and regional stability. Continued dialogue at the ministerial level ensures coordinated responses to emerging challenges.
