Saudi Arabia's top religious authority has called on soldiers stationed along the country's borders to be prepared to sacrifice their lives in the fight
against the Iran-backed Houthis. Grand Mufti Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan Al-Fawzan made the remarks in a strongly worded statement posted by Saudi state news agency SPA. The message urged troops to continue fighting until the Houthis are defeated. The statement came amid a fresh escalation between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis. The Iran-aligned group has carried out missile and drone attacks against Saudi Arabia, while Saudi and Yemeni government forces have responded with strikes against Houthi positions. "Protecting this great nation... and punishing anyone who seeks to lay a hand on even an inch of its territory are among the greatest duties and most virtuous acts of devotion, for which lives and souls may be sacrificed in seeking God's pleasure," the statement said. The Grand Mufti also said restoring the authority of Yemen's Saudi-backed, internationally recognised government across the country was "among the most pressing obligations". The statement called for the complete defeat of the Houthis and those supporting them. "We ask God Almighty to grant you all his support, and to protect our countries and beloved Yemen from all harm. We also ask him to bring about the complete defeat of the Houthi group and those who assist and support them," the statement said.
Message To Saudi Frontline Troops
The Grand Mufti urged soldiers serving on the front lines to remain prepared, follow orders and carry out their duties.
"It is incumbent upon you, brothers serving on the front lines, to remain constantly prepared to perform your duty, to obey the rulers and your field commanders, and to carry out orders with the utmost precision, as God Almighty commanded the companions of his Prophet to do," the statement said.
"You are following in the footsteps of the Prophet's companions, defending the sacred sites of Muslims."
The statement also drew on Quranic verses and sayings attributed to the Prophet Mohammad about sacrifice and defending the country.
The message comes as Saudi Arabia faces renewed attacks from the Houthis, with the conflict also affecting the wider regional security situation and Red Sea shipping.
Saudi Arabia has been involved in Yemen's conflict since 2015, when it launched a military operation against the Houthis after the group seized control of Yemen's capital, Sanaa.
