Is Saudi Arabia buying peace? Report says Riyadh offers $1 billion to Houthis for Iran-brokered deal | Today’s news
Saudi Arabia has reportedly offered Yemen’s Houthi rebels $1 billion under a proposed deal brokered by Iran to secure a ceasefire and stop attacks on the kingdom, Israeli media server Israel Hayom reported, citing diplomatic sources in the Persian Gulf.
The announced proposal comes amid efforts to reduce regional tensions and prevent further attacks on Saudi territory, including oil infrastructure, airports and military facilities.
Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman traveled to Tehran on Monday for talks with Iranian officials about a possible ceasefire with the Iran-aligned Houthis, according to a report.
The proposed arrangement reportedly involves the transfer of $1 billion to the group through Tehran.
One source cited by Israel Hayom claimed that the Saudi minister brought the money aboard a C-130 military transport plane.
The alleged payment, the circumstances of the minister’s visit and the terms of the proposed agreement have not been independently verified. It also remains unclear whether the Houthis accepted the proposal.
What does the announced $1 billion deal include?
The announced financial package is intended to address issues including unpaid public sector wages and reconstruction of civilian infrastructure in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen.
In return, the group is expected to abide by the ceasefire and stop attacks on Saudi territory, particularly against oil facilities, airports and military installations.
Read also | How the Houthis Became Iran’s Most Feared Ally
According to Israel Hayom, the proposal builds on earlier arrangements under which Saudi Arabia would help fund public sector salaries and reconstruction in Houthi-controlled areas in exchange for a cessation of hostilities.
The report said the Houthis accused Riyadh of failing to honor previous commitments. The latest proposal is said to be an attempt to revive these measures and ensure an end to the attacks.
Why is Iran a mediator between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis?
Iran’s role in the negotiations reflects Tehran’s involvement in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the Yemeni conflict. The Houthis maintain close ties with Iran, which faces accusations of providing military support to the group.
Tehran has sought to use its relations with the Houthis to facilitate dialogue with Saudi Arabia, even as tensions remain in the wider Middle East.
On October 20, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Saudi Arabia and the Houthis had not responded to Tehran’s offer to facilitate talks. The latest reported discussions could indicate a resumption of diplomatic activities, although it is unclear whether the sides have made progress towards a ceasefire.
Saudi Arabia has publicly characterized the recent high-level talks in Tehran as part of a broader effort to reduce regional tensions and seek diplomatic solutions.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry said the aim of Prince Khalid’s visit, along with representatives of partner countries, was to promote de-escalation. The statement did not confirm the alleged $1 billion payment or the specific terms mentioned in the Israeli media report.
What’s at stake for Saudi Arabia?
For Riyadh, the ceasefire could reduce threats to critical infrastructure, including oil facilities and airports.
Read also | A Saudi airline that took off right in the middle of the war
Attacks on energy infrastructure are a particular concern for Saudi Arabia because of the importance of its oil sector to the domestic economy and global energy markets.
