RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed on Tuesday the agreement between Yemen’s Houthi group and its internationally recognized government to exchange nearly 3,000 prisoners.

The ministry highlighted the agreement as a crucial humanitarian measure that helps alleviate human suffering in Yemen and fosters opportunities for confidence-building.

“The Kingdom appreciates the sincere and generous efforts made by the Sultanate of Oman in hosting and sponsoring the talks, and supporting negotiation efforts during the period from 9 to 23 December 2025,” the ministry stated.

It commended the efforts of UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and all negotiating parties to reach the agreement. The ministry added that Saudi Arabia supports all efforts aimed at achieving peace, security and stability that meet the aspirations of the Yemeni people, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The deal would involve the release of 1,700 prisoners from the Houthi group in exchange for 1,200 prisoners named by the internationally recognized government in Yemen, including seven Saudis and 23 Sudanese.

Grundberg, in a statement, welcomed the agreement and said that its “effective implementation will require the continued engagement and cooperation of the parties, coordinated regional support and sustained efforts to build on this progress toward further releases.”