Ex-VP Kalla Urges Islamic Nations to Pursue Dialogue on Saudi-Houthi Conflict

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla has voiced concern over the escalating security situation in the Middle East, particularly the conflict involving Saudi Arabia and the Houthi group in Yemen. Speaking at the 8th Congress of Indonesian Muslims in Jakarta on Sunday, July 26, 2026, Kalla stressed the urgent need for Islamic nations to initiate dialogue to prevent further regional instability.

“

We are very sorry for what is happening and is widening. We initially thought there was an agreement between Iran and America. Instead, it is widening.

Kalla noted the widening scope of the conflict, expressing disappointment that it seemed to be expanding despite previous agreements. He believes that countries within the Middle East, especially Arab nations, should proactively lead mediation efforts between the warring parties. "We hope that in the Middle East itself and Arab countries will try to reconcile each other, especially what is happening now between Yemen and Saudi, Yemen and Houthi with the government," Kalla stated.

“

We hope that in the Middle East itself and Arab countries will try to reconcile each other, especially what is happening now between Yemen and Saudi, Yemen and Houthi with the government.

He also appealed for restraint from the Houthi group, urging them to prioritize peace with the Yemeni government to avoid exacerbating internal and regional tensions. Similarly, Kalla called on Saudi Arabia to exercise restraint as long as the Houthi demonstrate a commitment to peace. He also suggested that major global powers, like the United States, have a responsibility to help de-escalate the conflict.

“

Saudi of course will restrain itself as long as Houthi restrains itself. So will other countries. America, who should actually stop all this. But among Islamic countries must unite.

Drawing on his extensive experience in peace processes, Kalla reiterated that dialogue remains the most effective solution compared to violence. He highlighted the role of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as a platform for Islamic nations to convene and pursue conflict resolution through negotiation. Kalla further encouraged Indonesia, as the world's most populous Muslim nation, to take a diplomatic lead in easing tensions in the Middle East, asserting that dialogue is key to resolving issues rather than relying solely on force.

“

There must be dialogue between Islamic countries. This is the function of the OIC and other Islamic countries.