The Foreign Minister calls for a firm international stance against the terrorist Houthi militias.

Yemeni Foreign Minister Calls for Strong International Stance Against Houthi Militias

On Sunday, Dr. Afrah Abdulaziz Al-Zuba, the Yemeni Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, discussed the current situation in Yemen during a phone call with Neil Hope, the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Yemen. They addressed the escalating terrorist activities of Houthi militias and their implications for humanitarian and security conditions. The conversation also covered threats to international navigation security and regional stability, as well as ways to enhance bilateral coordination and cooperation between the two countries.

Right to Restore State Sovereignty

Minister Al-Zuba emphasized the Yemeni people’s legitimate right to restore their state and national institutions. She asserted the need to establish sovereignty over all territories of the Republic of Yemen and to end the Houthi coup, which is supported by the Iranian regime.

She stressed that any sustainable political settlement must rely on national, regional, and international references. Furthermore, it should ensure that the state retains exclusive control over weapons and the decisions of war and peace, preventing any armed group from dictating Yemen’s future.

Houthi Agenda and Humanitarian Impact

Al-Zuba pointed out that Houthi militias continue to implement the Iranian regime’s agenda in the region. She highlighted the thousands of victims resulting from their actions, as well as the recruitment of children and youth to fight on the front lines. This practice represents a severe violation of international humanitarian law and human rights, leading to humanitarian and social repercussions that threaten the future of Yemeni generations and the cohesion of society.

Escalation in Taiz

The minister addressed the Houthi escalation in Taiz, noting attempts to impose a new siege on the city and restrict its residents. This strategy constitutes collective punishment targeting millions of civilians. Additionally, she condemned the bombardment of residential neighborhoods and displacement areas, exacerbating humanitarian suffering and endangering residents’ lives.

Securing International Navigation

Al-Zuba underscored the necessity of protecting international navigation and securing vital routes, particularly in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. She referenced the victories achieved by the Yemeni army in repelling Houthi terrorist militias from the Bab al-Mandab area. She affirmed that the safety of maritime corridors and the freedom of international trade represent a shared interest that requires effective international coordination to confront sources of threat and maintain regional security and stability.

Call for Unified International Action

The minister called for a firm and unified international stance against Houthi terrorist militias. She urged the translation of international commitments into practical measures that ensure the implementation of relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions regarding Yemen, particularly Resolution 2216. Additionally, she advocated for enhanced measures to halt the flow of weapons, funding, and military expertise from Iran to the militias, and to prevent the use of Yemeni territory as a launchpad for threats against regional countries and international maritime routes.

Importance of International Attention

Al-Zuba stressed the importance of keeping Yemen a priority on the international agenda. She advocated for a comprehensive approach that goes beyond responding to the immediate consequences of the crisis to address its root causes. Supporting the government’s efforts to achieve economic recovery, improve essential services, and alleviate humanitarian suffering will create conditions for sustainable stability.

U.S. Support for Yemen

The U.S. Chargé d’Affaires reaffirmed his country’s support for Yemen’s unity, security, and stability, as well as its backing for the Yemeni government. He condemned the criminal practices committed by Houthi militias against civilians and emphasized the importance of continued coordination and cooperation to protect international navigation and maintain regional security and stability.

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