Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed ElKhereiji stated at the Manama Dialogue security forum in Bahrain that the region is at a critical juncture, with widening conflict threatening maritime security, energy supplies, and the global economy. He affirmed that Saudi Arabia continues diplomatic efforts, in coordination with partners, to de-escalate and settle disputes peacefully, while also strengthening its own defenses, including critical infrastructure protection, cybersecurity, Gulf coordination, and defense partnerships. ElKhereiji also condemned continued Houthi escalation against Yemen and Saudi Arabia, accusing the group of targeting civilian sites, threatening shipping, and undermining peace efforts.