Obama calls Saudi king on ‘collective goal’ of Yemen stability

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama offered US support for air strikes led by Saudi Arabia and Gulf allies on rebel camps in Yemen during a phone call with King Salman, the White House said Friday.

“The president reaffirmed the strong friendship between the United States and Saudi Arabia and emphasized the United States´ support for the action taken by Saudi Arabia, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members, and others in response to President Hadi´s request and in support of the legitimate government of Yemen," said National Security Council spokeswoman Bernadette Meehan.

“The president underscored our commitment to Saudi Arabia´s security,” she added in a statement.

“The president and King Salman agreed that our collective goal is to achieve lasting stability in Yemen through a negotiated political solution facilitated by the United Nations and involving all parties as envisioned in the GCC Initiative.”

At least 39 civilians have been killed in Saudi-led Operation Decisive Storm against the Huthis and their allies, officials at the rebel-controlled health ministry in Sanaa said.