In brief
The Saudi and Australian defence leaders spoke on a call in Riyadh, reaffirming their shared commitment to addressing regional security challenges. They discussed ways to bolster cooperation, coordination, and jointly condemn the recent Houthi attacks targeting the Kingdom.
On 2 November 2026, Prince Khalid bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense, phoned Richard Marles, Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, to discuss ways to strengthen defence cooperation and coordination between the two friendly countries. The call, which took place in Riyadh, was reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
According to the SPA, the two ministers used the conversation to reaffirm their joint commitment to the current regional security landscape. In particular, they emphasised the need to confront emerging challenges that could threaten stability in the Middle East and beyond, while underlining the continued partnership between Saudi Arabia and Australia.
Both leaders also condemned the recent Houthi terrorist attacks on Saudi Arabia. The SPA noted that the call served as a platform to express a united denunciation of these hostile acts, reflecting the partners’ mutual defence interests.
Although the source materials do not provide verbatim statements from either minister, the SPA framed the discussion as one centred on expanding defence collaboration and enhancing mutual coordination. It highlighted that the Saudi‑Australian relationship continues to evolve in light of the shared security environment, and that the call reinforced the understanding that both sides remain vigilant against threats posed by non‑state actors such as the Houthi movement.
The Defence Ministers also touched on practical aspects of cooperation, although specific programmes or agreements were not detailed in the releases. The SPA emphasised that the joint discussions are part of a broader “commitment to addressing current regional challenges” that both governments see as essential for regional security and stability.
Both sides expressed optimism that continued dialogue will create tangible opportunities for joint training, intelligence sharing, and operational coordination. While the SPA did not disclose any particular initiatives, it underscored that the dialogue reflects a broader pattern of increasing defence ties between the Kingdom and the Commonwealth nation.
Overall, the exchange between Prince Khalid bin Salman and Richard Marles demonstrates the ongoing effort to solidify a strategic partnership grounded in shared values and a mutual concern for regional peace, highlighting the importance of cooperation in addressing the complex security dynamics affecting both Saudi Arabia and Australia. The discussion concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong diplomatic relationship that supports collaborative responses to contemporary threats such as the recent Houthi attacks.
