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Obama, Saudi King discuss 'urgency' of stopping Yemen fighting

The two leaders also discussed the importance of ensuring that assistance can reach Yemenis on all sides of the conflict

President Barack Obama and King Salman bin Abdul Aziz stand during the arrival ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Jan. 27, 2015 <b>Picture by AP/PTI</b>
AFPPTI Washington
Last Updated : Jul 15 2015 | 8:43 AM IST
US President Barack Obama and Saudi Arabia's King Salman have discussed the "urgent" need to end fighting in Yemen, hours after Saudi-backed loyalists retook control of Aden airport.

After discussion about a recently inked nuclear deal with Iran yesterday, the White House said Obama and Salman "also spoke about the urgency of stopping the fighting in Yemen and the importance of ensuring that assistance can reach Yemenis on all sides of the conflict."

The White House has repeatedly pressed for an end to the conflict in which Saudi Arabia has led a coalition air and naval campaign south of its border.

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It has also called for talks to end the crisis.

Leading Sunni power Saudi Arabia has been deeply concerned about Iranian influence in its impoverished southern neighbour.

Riyadh launched a devastating air campaign in March against the rebels and their allies in the armed forces.

Aden airport had been in the hands of the rebels since soldiers of the 39th Armored Brigade defected on March 25.

The fighting has raged despite a UN-declared six-day ceasefire that was supposed to have taken effect shortly before midnight Friday.

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First Published: Jul 15 2015 | 6:13 AM IST

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