The European Parliament calls for classifying the Houthis as a terrorist organization and reaffirms support for the Yemeni government.

European Parliament Calls for Houthi Militias to Be Designated as Terrorist Organizations

The European Parliament urged the Council of the European Union on Thursday to classify Houthi militias as terrorist organizations. The Parliament reaffirmed its support for the legitimate Yemeni government and its commitment to Yemen’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Demands for Comprehensive Classification

In a resolution addressing the Houthi escalation and its implications for regional security, the Parliament called for the classification to encompass both the political and military wings of the militias, including their leaders and military and security apparatus. The resolution also demanded the dismantling of their funding channels and the freezing of their financial assets and economic resources, along with the assets of entities facilitating their activities.

Condemnation of Houthi Attacks

The resolution strongly condemned Houthi missile and drone attacks on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, describing these military actions as serious violations of international law and humanitarian law. The Parliament expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia, reiterating its commitment to the country’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. It called for an immediate cessation of all hostilities by the Houthis both within Yemen and beyond, urging them to abandon any regional ambitions.

Criticism of Iranian Influence

The Parliament condemned the destabilizing role played by the Iranian regime, which provides the Houthis with weapons, missile technology, drones, training, and funding. It also highlighted the coordination between the militia and Hezbollah, as well as other Iran-backed armed groups.

Call for Disarmament

The resolution emphasized that achieving lasting stability in the Middle East requires the disarmament of all militias and non-state armed groups, along with the demobilization of their members.

Concerns Over Maritime Security

The Parliament denounced Houthi attacks on energy facilities and commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. It underscored the importance of the European operation (EUNAVFOR MED) for maritime security, calling for enhanced capabilities and expanded security and defense cooperation with Gulf partners.

Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen

The resolution expressed deep concern over the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Yemen, exacerbated by renewed fighting, which has led to civilian casualties, population displacement, and worsening suffering. It called for increased European aid and strict oversight of humanitarian assistance funded by the European Union.

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