Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced that the kingdom will not hesitate to take firm action against any threats or attacks targeting its security, while simultaneously emphasizing efforts to de-escalate and support diplomatic solutions. Speaking on Sept. 30, 2026, during the opening of the third year of the ninth term of the Shura Council on behalf of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince outlined regional defense strategies, diplomatic initiatives, and foreign policy stances ranging from Yemen to Sudan.
The royal address addressed a series of ongoing regional security challenges, notably following recent drone and missile attacks launched against the kingdom by Houthi forces. According to the state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Crown Prince Mohammed stated that the Houthis have chosen chaos, destruction, and threats to the Yemeni people and the broader region as their course of action. In response, the kingdom continues its comprehensive support for the Yemeni government through the Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen to restore state authority and stability.
Military Readiness and Regional Defense Alliances
To counter mounting cross-border threats, the Crown Prince said Saudi Arabia possesses high-efficiency human and military capabilities capable of fully deterring and confronting threats from any source. He stressed that attacks targeting any Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member state demonstrate that Gulf security and stability are indivisible. The kingdom is actively working with GCC partners to safeguard regional security, foster strategic cooperation, economic integration, and advance King Salman’s vision for joint action.
The Crown Prince also highlighted the establishment of the "Makkah Defense Pact" between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, designed to bolster regional stability, shield the area from the consequences of tension and conflict, and coordinate joint efforts. He also noted the creation of the multinational maritime defense coalition aimed at protecting shared interests in international waterways and rejecting any exploitation of maritime passages for political or economic pressure.
Did You Know? The annual royal speech delivered before the Shura Council outlines key domestic and foreign policy priorities, reflecting the kingdom’s official stance on international alliances, maritime security, and regional stability.
Diplomatic Positions on Gaza and Sudan
Turning to the ongoing conflict in the Palestinian territories, the Crown Prince strongly condemned continuing brutal attacks by Israeli occupation authorities against Palestinian citizens in the Gaza Strip and multiple violations at Al-Aqsa Mosque. He called upon the international community—specifically the Peace Council—to fulfill its expected role in achieving a lasting political solution. He reiterated that Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the Palestinian cause remains steadfast until Palestinians attain their legitimate rights, including the establishment of an independent state in accordance with international references.
On the situation in Sudan, the Crown Prince affirmed the kingdom’s firm and supportive stance toward Sudan’s unity, stability, the preservation of its legitimate institutions, and the protection of its people from the tragedies of war and destruction.
Saudi security stance and new defense pacts
What did Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman say about Saudi security?
He stated that the kingdom will not hesitate to take firm action against any threats or attacks targeting its security, while also pursuing de-escalation and diplomatic solutions.
What is the purpose of the newly formed coalitions mentioned in the address?
The “Makkah Defense Pact” between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan seeks to enhance regional stability and coordinate efforts against tension, while the multinational maritime defense coalition is designed to protect shared interests in international waterways.
What is Saudi Arabia’s position regarding Palestine and Sudan?
The kingdom condemned attacks on Palestinians in Gaza and violations at Al-Aqsa Mosque, calling for an independent Palestinian state, while firmly supporting Sudan’s unity, stability, and legitimate institutions.
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