The key facts

  • Hakan Fidan and Prince Faisal bin Farhan discussed regional security by phone
  • Focus on attacks against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia
  • The call took place amid the war with Iran and the resumption of fighting in Yemen

Phone Talks Between Fidan and the Saudi Minister

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a phone conversation with his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan, sources at the Turkish Foreign Ministry said on Monday. According to the source, the ministers discussed regional security issues, in particular attacks directed against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia.

Context of Tension in the Middle East

The call took place against the backdrop of ongoing tension in the Middle East due to the war with Iran and the resumption of hostilities in Yemen, where Houthi rebels are attacking Saudi energy and aviation facilities, including airports. Saudi Arabia has led an Arab coalition against the Houthis since 2015; the Houthis took control of the Yemeni capital Sanaa and other regions in 2014.