The Prime Minister discusses Houthi escalation and humanitarian conditions in Taiz with the Head of the European Union Mission.

Prime Minister Discusses Houthi Escalation and Humanitarian Situation in Taiz

On Monday, Prime Minister Dr. Sha’if Mohsen Al-Zandani received a phone call from Patrick Simonnet, the Head of the European Union Mission to Yemen. During the call, they discussed the ongoing military escalation by the Houthi terrorist militia, which includes repeated attacks on civilian facilities and state institutions, as well as violations against civilians and displaced persons. The conversation also addressed the continued blockade on the city of Taiz and the worsening humanitarian conditions there.

Escalating Attacks Threaten Regional Security

The Prime Minister emphasized that the simultaneous targeting of Aden International Airport and the Maasheq Palace, alongside Houthi assaults on civilian infrastructure in the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, highlights a dangerous escalation. He noted that these actions, which include attacks on civilians and the ongoing siege of Taiz, threaten the security of Yemen and the region. Furthermore, they exacerbate the suffering of citizens due to the persistent coup.

Government Commitment to Protect Citizens

Dr. Al-Zandani stressed that the targeting of vital facilities and civilians, as well as depriving Taiz residents of basic needs, reflects the militia’s ongoing efforts to undermine state institutions and impose a fait accompli through force. He affirmed that the government remains committed to fulfilling its responsibilities and enhancing the readiness of state institutions to protect citizens and vital facilities while ensuring the continuity of services. This commitment aligns with the objectives of “Operation Dawn of Yemen,” which aims to restore state authority across the national territory and end the Iranian-backed Houthi coup.

Call for International Support

The Prime Minister renewed his call for the international community to assume its responsibilities regarding Houthi violations against civilians and displaced persons. He urged for pressure to be applied to end the blockade of Taiz and to open roads for the movement of citizens and humanitarian supplies.

EU’s Commitment to Humanitarian Aid

Dr. Al-Zandani appreciated the European Commission’s announcement of an additional 22.5 million euros for humanitarian assistance in Yemen. This funding will help address urgent humanitarian needs and alleviate the suffering of millions of Yemenis.

He also praised the European Union’s supportive stance towards the Yemeni government and its ongoing efforts to assist humanitarian responses. He expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Head of the European Union Mission in enhancing coordination and communication with the Yemeni government, as well as supporting its efforts to alleviate humanitarian suffering and strengthen state institutions in facing current challenges.

EU Mission’s Ongoing Support

For his part, Patrick Simonnet confirmed the European Union’s interest in monitoring developments in Yemen and continuing to support the Yemeni government during this challenging phase.

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