Riyadh seeks ceasefire through Iran-mediated talks; reported financial deal remains unconfirmed
News Desk: Saudi Arabia has reportedly offered Yemen’s Houthi rebels $1 billion in exchange for halting attacks on the kingdom, under a proposed arrangement involving Iran, according to Israeli media reports citing diplomatic sources in the Gulf.
The reported initiative comes amid escalating regional tensions and renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further attacks on Saudi territory, including airports and oil infrastructure.
According to Israel Hayom, Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman travelled to Tehran for discussions aimed at securing a ceasefire with the Houthis. The proposed arrangement reportedly envisages channelling financial assistance to the group through Iran.
However, neither the alleged $1 billion transfer nor an agreement with the Houthis has been officially confirmed. A Saudi official cited in the report did not confirm that any money had been transferred.
Saudi Arabia Reportedly Offers Houthis $1 Billion to Halt Attacks https://t.co/s3ruslpfEL
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High-Level Talks in Tehran
The diplomatic engagement brought together senior representatives from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey with Iranian officials on October 26. The participants reportedly included Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry said the visit was part of continuing efforts to de-escalate the regional crisis, promote dialogue and pursue diplomatic solutions. It also highlighted mediation efforts involving Qatar and Pakistan.
The four countries agreed to continue discussions on regional peace and security, but no comprehensive settlement was announced.
Funds for Salaries and Reconstruction
According to the Israeli media report, the proposed financial assistance would help pay public-sector salaries in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and support the reconstruction of civilian infrastructure.
The reported offer is also linked to earlier understandings concerning financial assistance and a broader settlement of the Yemen conflict. The Houthis have reportedly accused Riyadh of failing to fulfil previous commitments.
In return for the proposed assistance, the group would be expected to maintain a ceasefire and stop attacks on Saudi Arabia.
The report also said Riyadh remained reluctant to make concessions under military pressure and opposed transferring funds before the Houthis returned territory seized from Yemen’s internationally recognised government.
Regional Security at Stake
The reported initiative comes as Houthi attacks have emerged as a significant security concern for Saudi Arabia amid the wider confrontation involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and threats to regional energy infrastructure have further heightened concerns over oil supplies and economic stability.
For Riyadh, preventing further attacks could help protect critical infrastructure and reduce the risk of a wider conflict. Iran’s participation could also provide a channel for negotiations with the Houthis, who have longstanding ties with Tehran.
Whether the reported financial proposal can lead to a durable ceasefire remains uncertain. For now, the $1 billion figure remains an unverified media report, while diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions continue.
