Abbas Praises Saudi Attack on Rebels in Yemen

Palestinian Authority chairman Mahmoud Abbas said Thursday he supports Saudi Arabia's attack on Iranian-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen

Saudi Arabia has been joined by other oil-rich states, including Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and the Gulf States, all of whom said that "they "have decided to answer the call of President Hadi to protect Yemen and his people from the aggression of the Huthi militia."

Egypt, Pakistan, Jordan, Morocco and Sudan also "expressed desire to participate in the operation," according to the official Saudi news agency. Egypt said it is ready to provide air and naval power and even foot soldiers, if necessary.

Abbas' statement lines him up with the ruling Sunni Muslims who fear a Shi'ite Muslim takeover in Yemen will strengthen Iran's aim at ruling the Middle East.