The Defense Minister meets with European Union ambassadors in Aden.

Minister of Defense Discusses Yemen’s Situation with EU Ambassadors

In a significant meeting today, Yemen’s Minister of Defense, Lieutenant General Mohsen Al-Daari, engaged with European Union ambassadors in the temporary capital of Aden. The discussion included Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Mustafa Al-Noman.

Key Attendees

The meeting featured prominent diplomats, including EU Ambassador Gabriel Vinals, Dutch Ambassador Janette Sebin, French Ambassador Catherine Colonna, German Ambassador Janina Kuefemueler, Finnish Deputy Ambassador Linnaana Vihl, and Joost Moelmann, Director of Cooperation at the European Union.

Maritime Security Efforts

The attendees focused on the ongoing efforts to secure maritime navigation in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait. They addressed the persistent threat posed by the Houthi militia to freedom of navigation and global trade routes.

Houthi Threats and Regional Stability

Minister Al-Daari emphasized that the Houthi militia has transformed Yemen into a launchpad for Iranian missiles and weaponry, posing a direct threat to regional stability. He reiterated the necessity of bolstering the armed forces to ensure maritime security, restore state authority, and eliminate the Houthi threat to both regional and international peace.

Commitment to Peace

The Minister highlighted the Yemeni government’s ongoing positive engagement with regional allies and international partners to achieve peace. He pointed out that Yemenis have endured a long history with the Houthi militia, which has consistently failed to honor agreements and will only seek peace through force.

Collaboration with Other Terrorist Groups

Al-Daari also noted the ongoing collaboration between the Houthi militia and other terrorist organizations, including the Somali militant group Al-Shabaab. He stressed the importance of supporting coast guard forces to effectively secure Yemen’s shores against arms and drug trafficking activities linked to the Houthi militia.

EU Support for Peace Initiatives

In response, the EU ambassadors reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Presidential Leadership Council and the Yemeni government in their quest for peace. Their continued backing underscores the international community’s dedication to stabilizing Yemen and fostering a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

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