Dr. Abdullah Al-Alimi, a member of the Presidential Leadership Council, urged the UN Security Council to address Iran’s violations of Yemen’s sovereignty.

Yemeni Government Calls for UN Security Council Meeting Over Iranian Violations

Dr. Abdullah Alimi, a member of the Presidential Leadership Council, announced that the Yemeni government has urged the United Nations Security Council to convene. This request follows Iran’s recent violation of Yemen’s sovereignty, highlighted by the arrival of an Iranian aircraft, “Mahan,” which transported a Houthi delegation from Sana’a to Tehran. Alimi characterized this act as a blatant infringement on Yemen’s sovereignty and a direct challenge to international legitimacy.

International Response Expected

Alimi expressed expectations for a clear condemnation from the international community regarding this breach of Yemen’s sovereignty. He stated, “We will wield the sword of peace until the last moment. After that, we are prepared for every option, including military action. Just as war was imposed on us before, we are ready for it today.”

Commitment to the Yemeni People

In an interview with Al Arabiya, Dr. Alimi emphasized the government’s responsibility towards every Yemeni citizen, from Saada to Mahra. He asserted that the suffering of the Yemeni people should not become a bargaining chip for the Houthis. He highlighted the existence of effective state institutions and genuine reforms that support the Yemeni populace.

Peace Negotiations with the Houthis

Alimi remarked that achieving peace with the Houthis is not inherently complex. However, he noted the absence of a sincere negotiating partner willing to work towards a fair, lasting, and comprehensive peace. He pointed out that key issues, including the release of prisoners, the reopening of Sana’a airport, and the state’s monopoly on weapons, remain unresolved. The government has consistently advocated for these points since the Geneva negotiations in June 2015 through various subsequent talks.

Impact of Houthi Actions on National Airline

Regarding Yemenia, the national airline, Dr. Alimi reported that the Houthi militia has detained four civilian aircraft belonging to Yemenia. These planes were meant to transport Yemeni passengers following the Hajj season in June 2024. Instead, the Houthis have repurposed these aircraft for their own use, exacerbating Yemen’s involvement in a regional conflict that does not concern it. This situation has led to Israeli airstrikes on Sana’a airport, damaging civilian aircraft.

Iran’s Role in Regional Tensions

Dr. Alimi expressed regret over the Houthis’ attempts to leverage national issues and the suffering of the Yemeni people to serve Iranian agendas. He accused Iran of transforming Yemen into a pawn in its regional strategy, using it to settle scores and as a platform in its conflicts with the outside world.

Call for International Support

Alimi condemned Iran’s actions on July 3 as a gross violation of Yemen’s sovereignty and a clear defiance of the United Nations and international law. He affirmed the government’s commitment to using all political, diplomatic, and military means to protect the achievements of the Yemeni people and alleviate their suffering. He emphasized the need for civil aviation to focus on humanitarian efforts without interference in Yemenia’s operations.

A Unified Stance Against Houthi Threats

The Yemeni government remains open to a just peace based on clear references while being prepared to counter any threats to the nation’s resources. Dr. Alimi urged the international community to support the Yemeni government, stressing that the Houthi threat extends beyond Yemen and poses risks to global interests.

In conclusion, the Yemeni government seeks to address the ongoing challenges posed by the Houthis and their Iranian backers, advocating for international solidarity to restore peace and stability in the region.

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