Iranian President lashes out at Riyadh

“You planted the seeds of hatred and you will see the response sooner or later,” Rowhani said, referring to the Saudi royal family, in a speech at the annual Army Day ceremony in Tehran, according to foreign sources.

“Our strategy has always been that of a deterrent… not a doctrine of war,” he added. “The presence of Iranian naval ships in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Aden is intended to ensure the security of neighbouring countries and maritime traffic.”

Saudi Arabia has accused Tehran of providing weapons to the Houthis – a charge Iran denies.