Jim Mattis backs Saudi decision to halt US aerial refueling in Yemen war

"The U.S. and the Coalition are planning to collaborate on building up legitimate Yemeni forces to defend the Yemeni people, secure their country’s borders, and contribute to counter Al Qaeda and ISIS efforts in Yemen and the region," Mattis said.

U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis voiced support on Friday for the Saudi decision to end U.S. aerial refuelling of Saudi-led coalition aircraft engaged in Yemen's war and said it was taken in consultation with the U.S. government.

But Mattis suggested a continuing role for the United States in Yemen to help the Saudi-led coalition and Yemeni forces minimize civilian casualties and expand humanitarian efforts.

"The U.S. and the Coalition are planning to collaborate on building up legitimate Yemeni forces to defend the Yemeni people, secure their country's borders, and contribute to counter Al Qaeda and ISIS efforts in Yemen and the region," Mattis said in a statement.