Qatar and Jordan condemn Iranian attacks on Saudi Arabia
In a unified Arab stance, both Qatar and Jordan strongly condemned the attacks launched by Iran targeting vital facilities and territory in Saudi Arabia. Both countries expressed their full solidarity with Saudi Arabia, considering these attacks a dangerous and unacceptable escalation that threatens the security and stability of the entire region.
The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement strongly condemning the attacks targeting areas in Riyadh and the Eastern Province, describing them as a blatant violation of the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The statement affirmed Qatar's full support for and solidarity with the Kingdom in all measures it takes to preserve its sovereignty, security, and stability. Doha stressed that this escalation undermines peace efforts and destabilizes the Gulf region and the Middle East.
Similarly, the Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning the attacks in the strongest terms. The Jordanian government affirmed its categorical rejection and condemnation of these attacks, which constitute a violation of Saudi sovereignty and a direct threat to the security of the region. The statement reiterated Jordan's absolute solidarity with and support for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in all steps and measures it takes to protect its security, defend its territory, and ensure the safety of its citizens.
Background to the tensions and the importance of the Arab position
These attacks come amid ongoing regional tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran, manifested in several issues, most notably the conflict in Yemen. The Iranian-backed Houthi group has claimed responsibility for numerous ballistic missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities and facilities. However, major attacks, such as the 2019 attack on Aramco facilities in Abqaiq and Khurais, have led to international accusations of direct Iranian involvement due to the attack's sophistication and precision, accusations which Tehran denied at the time. These attacks not only target Saudi infrastructure but also threaten global energy supplies, giving them a dangerous international dimension.
Regional and international influences
The significance of the condemnations issued by Qatar and Jordan lies in their reflection of a growing Arab consensus rejecting Iranian interference and attacks targeting the sovereignty of states. This unified stance sends a clear message that the security of the Arabian Gulf is an integral part of Arab national security. Internationally, these attacks further complicate the geopolitical landscape, prompting global powers to call for restraint and avoid sliding into a large-scale military confrontation that could have dire consequences for the global economy and the stability of vital waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz.
