Japan Denounces Houthi Attacks On Saudi Arabia, Urges De-escalation

TOKYO, Oct 12 (NNN-Kyodo) -- Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said Sunday that Japan denounces attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels on Saudi Arabia, urging them to stop escalating the situation immediately, Kyodo News reported.

As peace and stability in West Asia is critical for the world and for Japan's energy security, Tokyo will make "every diplomatic effort" toward de-escalating and stabilising the situation early with countries like Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

"Attacks on civilians and civilian facilities can never be tolerated, and Japan renews its strong denunciation of the series of attacks by the Houthis," Motegi said in a statement.

Saudi Arabia has seen attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis in recent days. Over 10 people were killed and 300 injured after a missile hit King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Saturday. The same airport was also attacked on Sunday, according to Saudi authorities.

The war has raised concerns about supply disruptions and the negative impact on Japan of surging energy prices, as the resource-poor country relies heavily on West Asia for crude oil.

--NNN-KYODO