Saudi Arabia has announced its plan to end a long-running war against Yemen's Houthi rebels. Saudi Arabia's Foreign minister said on Monday that the Kingdom plans a ceasefire with its Yemeni rivals under the auspices of the United Nations.

Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud said, speaking to reporters on Monday, that the country envisions a cease-fire proposal to Houthi rebels “for the entire conflict.”

He said that the proposal will include allowing for the main airport in Yemen’s rebel-held capital, Sanaa, to reopen.

The proposal would also allow for fuel and food imports through the western port of Hodeidah, Yemen’s main port of entry, and restarting political negotiations between the Saudi Arabia-backed government of President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi and the Houthis.

However, Houthis responded to the initiative saying it is nothing new.

“Saudi Arabia must declare an end to the aggression and lift the blockade completely, but putting forward ideas that have been discussed for over a year is nothing new,” Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam said according to the rebel-run television.

In a separate talk with Reuters, he said, “We expected that Saudi Arabia would announce an end to the blockade of ports and airports and an initiative to allow in 14 ships that are held by the coalition. Opening the airports and seaports is a humanitarian right and should not be used as a pressure tool.” 

Saudi Arabia, the US, and the US allies accuse Houthis of being backed by Iran, however, both Iran and Houthis reject the claim.

Sources: Alzajeera, Reuters