Qatar strongly condemned the attack that targeted a Saudi frigate while on a surveillance patrol west of the port of Hodeida, killing two members of the ship crew and injuring three others.
Although the Saudi warship "dealt with the boats", one "collided with the back of the ship and exploded and caused a fire" which the crew brought under control, the coalition said.
In a statement, Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the Houthi militias' continuous systematic targeting represents a blatant attack that would undermine efforts to reach a political solution, and would impact the international navigation and the flow of humanitarian and medical assistance to the Yemeni citizens. It affirmed Qatar's solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in its efforts and actions to maintain security and stability.
The Ministry reiterated Qatar's support for all International and regional efforts being exerted in order to implement the Security Council resolution 2216. The statement expressed sincere condolences to the Saudi government and people and the families of the martyrs who died in the heinous crime.
Since it began air strikes in March 2015, the Saudi-led coalition has imposed an air and sea blockade of rebel-held areas.
