EU in talks with Oman over 'way forward' in Yemen

The European Union has announced its opposition to the Saudi-led campaign in Yemen, saying in a statement that "military action is not a solution".

Two key EU players, the UK and France, had earlier announced their backing for the military action, saying they hoped it would support Yemen's legitimate government.

Federica Mogherini, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said that pursuing military action risked "serious regional consequences".

She also announced that she had been in contact with the Foreign Minister of Oman to discuss "the way forward".

Oman, Iran's nearest neighbour in the Persian Gulf region, is the only Gulf State not to have announced its support for the Saudi-led offensive.

It has not publicly stated any reasons for its decision.