Rome: Italy on Thursday condemned Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni government, expressing solidarity with affected populations and demanding an end to hostilities.

According to Anadolu Agency, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani conveyed Italy's strong condemnation of the Houthi attacks through a statement on the US social media platform X. Tajani emphasized Italy's solidarity with those impacted by the ongoing violence and stressed the urgent need for an end to the hostilities.

He highlighted the importance of maintaining the freedom and security of navigation in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Tajani noted that Italy remains committed to safeguarding freedom of navigation and contributing to maritime security and regional stability. This commitment will be demonstrated through Italy's participation in EUNAVFOR Aspides, an EU naval operation set to launch in 2024, aimed at protecting international shipping from Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and surrounding waters.

The backdrop to these developments includes renewed military escalation in Yemen between government forces and the Houthis since early July, following a period of relative calm that began with a truce in April 2022. Since September 2014, the Houthis have maintained control over the national capital, Sanaa, and significant regions in northern and western Yemen, while the government and its allies hold areas in the south and east.

Saudi Arabia has been leading a coalition in support of Yemen's government against the Houthis since March 2015, amid accusations of Iranian support for the Houthi faction.