US and Saudi Diplomats Discuss Regional Security and Yemen Conflict

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in Washington, DC, on September 29, 2026, to discuss cooperation on regional security challenges, including the situation in Yemen and shipping safety in the Strait of Hormuz. The discussions occurred amid ongoing hostilities involving Yemen’s Houthis, who are backed by Iran and have targeted Saudi infrastructure. Rubio stated on social media that they addressed bilateral cooperation in regional security, including issues related to Iran, Gaza, Sudan, and Yemen. The Saudi Press Agency reported that the talks included security and political developments in the region and efforts to address the situation in Yemen. They also discussed the importance of protecting navigation and freedom of passage through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandeb strait. The meeting followed reports that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had requested US military assistance against the Houthis, although Washington opted to provide intelligence and targeting support instead. Additionally, Rubio met with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who urged the US to facilitate the implementation of a ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel. Salam emphasized the need for practical steps and a clear timetable for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon, along with a verification mechanism to ensure compliance. He also called for international support for relief and reconstruction efforts in Lebanon.