An American defense official has announced that the US military rescued two Saudi Arabian pilots over the Gulf of Aden after their fighter jet crashed during combat operations in Yemen.

The unnamed official said on Friday that the pilots ejected from their F-15 jet and were rescued by a HH-60 helicopter in international waters.

The USS Sterett, a destroyer operating in the region, participated in the operation. The USS New York was also involved.

The White House said Saudi King Salman thanked President Barack Obama for the rescue operation.

On Thursday, Saudi Arabia began launching airstrikes in Yemen. Saudi warplanes bombed the positions of the Ansarullah fighters and launched attacks against the Sana'a airport and the Dulaimi airbase.

Earlier on Friday, the US president offered Washington�s support for the airstrikes.

US National Security Council spokeswoman Bernadette Meehan said Obama reaffirmed the strong friendship between the United States and Saudi Arabia and emphasized the United States' support for the action taken by Saudi Arabia.

"The president underscored our commitment to Saudi Arabia's security," she said in a statement.

"The president and King Salman agreed that our collective goal is to achieve lasting stability in Yemen through a negotiated political solution facilitated by the United Nations," she added.

Secretary of State John Kerry said on Thursday that his country praises the military action and is backing it through intelligence sharing, targeting assistance and logistical support.

By Press TV