Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III called His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman, Saudi Minister of Defense, today to discuss Houthi threats to freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. Secretary Austin emphasized that Houthi aggression toward vessels transiting critical waterways poses risks to the free flow of commerce and the international shipping industry. He also underscored Iran’s dangerous role in advising, arming, and training the Houthis. Secretary Austin conveyed his desire to work with all nations who share an interest in upholding the principle of freedom of navigation and ensuring safe passage for global shipping.