DHAKA: Saudi Arabia has said ‘unprecedented challenges’ facing Yemen since Shia Muslim rebels took over the capital could threaten international security, and called for swift action to deal with instability in its southern neighbour.

The world’s largest oil exporter, which shares a long border with Yemen, welcomed an agreement signed in Sanaa on September 21 to form a new government incorporating the Houthi rebels and some Yemeni southern separatist forces.

But the kingdom, a key US ally which views itself as protector of Sunni Islam, fears the accord could benefit its main regional foe Iran, which it sees as an ally of the Houthis, and might also bolster the Islamist militant Al-Qaeda group.

It is not clear whether the power-sharing deal will satisfy the Houthis’ demands, or whether it will instead embolden them to seek further powers, reports The Straits Times.

Under a security annexe to the accord, they had been expected to leave Sanaa in return for their inclusion in the new government. To date they remain in place.

BDST: 1832 HRS, SEP 28, 2014