The Foreign Minister discusses the situation and Houthi escalation with the Chargé d’Affaires of the American Embassy.

Yemeni Foreign Minister Emphasizes Investment in National Security

Yemen’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Dr. Afrah Al-Zuba, affirmed that investing in the security of the Yemeni state and enhancing the capabilities of its institutions to protect its territories, coasts, ports, and territorial waters represents the least costly and most sustainable path to safeguard Bab al-Mandab, the Red Sea, and the security of international navigation and trade.

Meeting with U.S. Charge d’Affaires

This statement came during a meeting between Minister Al-Zuba and the U.S. Charge d’Affaires in Yemen, Neil Hope. They discussed recent developments, including the latest Houthi escalation, the bilateral relations between the two friendly nations, and ways to enhance cooperation and coordination on issues of mutual interest.

Sustainable Solutions for Maritime Security

Minister Al-Zuba explained that while protecting ships and addressing threats once they reach maritime corridors remains essential, the more sustainable solution begins with empowering the Yemeni state to safeguard its coasts, ports, and territorial waters. She emphasized the need to strengthen the capabilities of naval forces and coast guards and combat arms smuggling networks and financing. She asserted that investing in the Yemeni state’s capabilities directly contributes to the security of the Red Sea and regional and international interests.

Yemen’s Sovereign Right to Defense

The minister stressed that the state relies on its sovereign and legitimate right, as well as its constitutional and legal responsibility, to defend its citizens, armed forces, institutions, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. She condemned attempts by the Houthi militia to impose new realities by force, asserting that the armed forces will continue to fulfill their duty to protect national and sovereign interests and prevent the use of Yemeni lands and coasts as a platform to threaten neighboring countries and international navigation.

Concerns Over Iranian Support for Houthis

Minister Al-Zuba warned of the dangers posed by continued Iranian support and armament of the Houthi militia, as well as their attempts to expand towards Bab al-Mandab. She highlighted the risks that extend beyond Yemen, affecting regional security, the Red Sea, and global trade. She underscored the importance of halting the flow of weapons and financing to the militia and enhancing the capabilities of state institutions to confront sources of threat.

Appreciation for U.S. Partnership

The Foreign Minister expressed the Republic of Yemen’s appreciation for its partnership with the United States. She emphasized the importance of continuing cooperation to support state institutions, combat terrorism and smuggling, and enhance the security of coasts and maritime corridors, which serves the security and stability of Yemen and the region.

U.S. Response to Houthi Escalation

In response, U.S. Charge d’Affaires Neil Hope reiterated his country’s position regarding the recent escalation. He stated that the Houthi militia and their Iranian supporters miscalculated when they underestimated the determination of the Yemeni government, armed forces, and the Yemeni people to end the Houthi aggression and brutality.

He noted that the actions of the Houthi militia have ignited the current escalation, supported by documented Iranian backing, and that these actions have brought nothing but suffering to Yemen, turning the country into a base used by Iran to undermine Arab unity and security.

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