The Chairman of the Shura Council discusses developments and Houthi threats to international navigation with the French ambassador.

Dr. Ahmed Obaid Bin Daghr Discusses Recent Developments with French Ambassador

Dr. Ahmed Obaid Bin Daghr, the Chairman of the Shura Council, met today with Catherine Gramegum, the French Ambassador to Yemen. They discussed the latest developments in the national situation, particularly focusing on recent events in Al-Mokha, the western coast, and Bab al-Mandab, and their implications for the security and stability of Yemen and the region.

Support for Yemen’s Legitimacy

During the meeting, Dr. Bin Daghr praised France’s supportive stance towards Yemen and its constitutional legitimacy, represented by the Presidential Leadership Council headed by President Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi. He emphasized the importance of continued international support for efforts aimed at ending the Houthi coup, restoring state institutions, and maintaining Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Recent Houthi Escalation

The two sides discussed the recent escalation of Houthi militia activities in Al-Mokha, the western coast, and Bab al-Mandab. They noted the resulting military and security developments that threaten regional stability.

Threats to International Navigation

Dr. Bin Daghr warned that Houthi control over these strategic areas enhances the group’s ability to threaten international shipping routes. He expressed concern that the Houthis might use Bab al-Mandab as leverage for pressure and extortion, jeopardizing commercial shipping and maritime security, which in turn threatens global trade.

Condemnation of Houthi Attacks

Dr. Bin Daghr strongly condemned the Houthi attacks targeting civilian facilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He stated that targeting civilian sites constitutes an aggressive act that contradicts international law and humanitarian values, endangering the Kingdom’s security and regional stability.

Responsibility for Aggression

He held the Iran-backed Houthi militias fully responsible for these attacks. Dr. Bin Daghr asserted that their continued targeting of the Kingdom, maritime routes, and civilian facilities reveals the destructive nature of the group’s agenda. He called for a firm and deterrent international response to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure and to ensure regional security.

France’s Commitment to Peace

In response, Ambassador Gramegum reaffirmed France’s support for efforts to achieve peace and stability in Yemen. She stressed the importance of safeguarding international navigation security and freedom of trade in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab, rejecting any threats to commercial vessels and international maritime routes. She reiterated France’s readiness to continue supporting international efforts to resolve the Yemeni crisis and reach a comprehensive and sustainable political solution.

Attendees of the Meeting

The meeting included Shura Council members Dr. Najat Saem Khalil, Bajash Ali Al-Aghbari, and Lutfi Fouad Noman.

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