Kuwait's foreign ministry has condemned the Houthis' attacks on ships in the Red Sea, describing Saturday's strike on the Saudi vessel NCC MASA as a “flagrant violation of international law” and a direct threat to maritime security and international trade.

In a statement, the ministry reaffirmed its “full solidarity” with Saudi Arabia and backed “all measures” taken by the kingdom to protect its sovereignty and security.

Houthis had declared a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia last week and followed the announcement with attacks. Riyadh responded with strikes on the Houthi-held city of Hodeidah, after which the group claimed it struck Saudi oil facilities.