The Foreign Minister and his Bahraini counterpart discuss the Houthi military escalation and the siege on Taiz.

Yemeni and Bahraini Foreign Ministers Discuss Houthi Military Escalation and Siege on Taiz

Today, Dr. Afrah Al-Zubaidi, the Yemeni Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, held a phone conversation with Dr. Abdullatif Al-Zayani, the Bahraini Minister of Foreign Affairs. They discussed the latest developments in Yemen, including the military progress made by the armed forces in Bab al-Mandab and the western coast. They also addressed the Houthi terrorist attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and the implications of the military escalation and the siege imposed on Taiz Governorate.

Strong Condemnation of Houthi Attacks

During the call, both ministers emphasized that the Houthi militia’s attacks contradict the values of Arab unity and the interests of the region’s peoples. They noted that the threat posed by the Houthis extends beyond Yemen, affecting the security of neighboring countries and international navigation. They called for a firm international stance that goes beyond mere condemnation to include practical measures that would put an end to these attacks and protect civilians.

The ministers condemned the assault on King Khalid Airport in the strongest terms, as well as previous Houthi attacks on airports and civilian facilities in Saudi Arabia. They expressed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia, supporting its actions to protect its security and sovereignty. They stressed that these attacks represent a blatant violation of international laws and norms, posing a direct threat to civilian lives, civil aviation safety, and regional security.

Highlighting the Nature of Houthi Aggression

Dr. Al-Zubaidi asserted that the targeting of King Khalid Airport once again reveals the terrorist and criminal nature of the militias, which operate without regard for laws or ethical considerations. She pointed out that their attacks on Saudi Arabia serve the agenda of the Iranian regime. She affirmed that Saudi security is an integral part of Yemen’s and the region’s security.

The Humanitarian Crisis in Taiz

The minister also briefed her Bahraini counterpart on the repercussions of the Houthi escalation in Taiz. She explained that the militia has expanded the siege on the city, which has lasted for twelve years, to include most districts of the governorate. This situation threatens the lives of millions of residents and exacerbates their humanitarian suffering. She noted that this escalation recalls the hardships faced by the people of Taiz during the early years of the war, including sieges, abuses, and horrific crimes.

Call for International Action

Dr. Al-Zubaidi emphasized that Taiz, which has endured and triumphed, will prevail again and will not succumb to the militia’s extortion. She stated that the militias aim to subjugate the people of the governorate and break their will through siege, bombardment, sniping, and landmines, turning civilian life into a means of pressure and extortion. She urged the international community and the United Nations to exert real pressure on the militia to halt its aggression, lift the siege, and ensure the delivery of essential needs to the population.

Appreciation for Bahraini Support

Dr. Al-Zubaidi expressed her appreciation for Bahrain’s steadfast and brotherly positions in support of the Yemeni people and their legitimate government, as well as its backing for efforts to restore the state. She highlighted Bahrain’s role in the Security Council and its advocacy for implementing its resolutions and deterring Houthi attacks that threaten Yemen’s security and that of its neighbors, as well as the safety of international navigation.

Continued Coordination Between Yemen and Bahrain

Both ministers confirmed their commitment to ongoing consultations and coordination regarding developments in Yemen and the region. They also discussed enhancing cooperation between the two brotherly countries on various issues of mutual interest.

Dr. Al-Zayani reiterated Bahrain’s unwavering support for the Presidential Leadership Council and the legitimate Yemeni government, as well as for Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He expressed support for efforts aimed at ending the coup and restoring the state and its institutions.

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