Yemen Affirms Possibility of Peace Amid Ongoing Crisis
The Republic of Yemen has reiterated that peace remains achievable, but it requires a serious partner and a more robust international approach. This shift must transition from merely managing conflict to actively supporting state-building and eliminating threats. The Yemeni government highlighted the devastation caused by the Houthi militia’s coup.
Regional and International Implications of Yemen’s Stability
In a statement delivered to the United Nations Security Council during an open session on the Middle East, Yemen’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Abdullah Al-Saadi, emphasized that Yemen’s stability is no longer just an internal matter. It has become a shared regional and international interest. He warned that any negligence in supporting the Yemeni state would prolong the conflict, deepen the humanitarian crisis, and escalate both security and economic costs in the future.
The Houthi Threat
The statement identified the Houthi militia as the primary adversary of the Yemeni people and the root cause of Yemen’s suffering for over a decade. Since their coup against national consensus, the militia has destroyed state institutions, seized resources, and plunged the country into one of the worst humanitarian crises globally. Furthermore, they have transformed Yemen into a platform for regional and international security threats by targeting maritime routes, smuggling weapons, and collaborating with cross-border terrorist organizations.
Urgent Need for a Comprehensive Peace Approach
The Yemeni government stressed that the ongoing Houthi control over state institutions, driven by Iranian interests, poses a threat not only to Yemen but also undermines regional and global security. Any peace initiative that overlooks the need to end the Houthi coup, disarm the militia, and restore state institutions will only prolong the conflict, exacerbate civilian suffering, and create further chaos and Iranian-backed wars.
A New Chapter in Yemen’s Governance
Ambassador Al-Saadi stated, “I stand before you today at a pivotal moment in Yemen’s modern history.” He noted that Yemen is beginning to reclaim its sovereign decision-making and unify its security and military strategies after years of fragmentation and power struggles.
Recent Developments in Military Control
In recent days, the Yemeni state, with support from the Coalition for Legitimacy, has successfully executed a nationwide operation to regain control of military camps in liberated provinces, starting from Hadramout and Al-Mahra to the temporary capital, Aden. This operation adhered to high professional and legal standards, aligning with international humanitarian law while ensuring civilian protection and safeguarding public and private property.
Addressing Security and Stability
The recent achievements are not merely security measures; they represent a crucial step toward ending the unchecked use of force and the presence of multiple military factions that have undermined stability and threatened social cohesion. These gaps have been exploited by both terrorist groups and the Houthi militia, eroding international confidence in Yemen’s state institutions.
Leadership Decisions and National Unity
The Presidential Leadership Council and the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, President Rashad Mohammed Alimi, have made courageous sovereign decisions. These include declaring a state of emergency in accordance with the constitution and transitional frameworks, as well as correcting the partnership within the Coalition for Legitimacy to ensure clear roles, unified leadership, and respect for Yemen’s sovereignty.
Commitment to Human Rights and Justice
The Yemeni government reaffirmed its full commitment to human rights and the rule of law. President Alimi has ordered the closure of all illegal detention centers, the release of unlawfully held detainees, and the initiation of transparent investigations to prevent past injustices from recurring. The state remains dedicated to compensating victims, caring for the families of martyrs, and treating the wounded, recognizing that justice and reparations are fundamental to any sustainable peace.
International Cooperation on Humanitarian Issues
The Yemeni government praised the UN’s efforts regarding detained prisoners and highlighted recent negotiations hosted by Oman, which have led to significant progress. The Yemeni government is committed to working closely with the UN envoy to ensure this humanitarian path alleviates the suffering of thousands of Yemeni families and builds the necessary trust for a comprehensive peace process. It is also prepared to facilitate the unconditional release of UN and humanitarian organization staff held by the Houthi militia.
Addressing the Southern Issue
The just southern cause remains a top priority for the Presidential Leadership Council. It is a political and national issue that cannot be simplified or monopolized through militarization or external support. The presidential call for an inclusive Southern dialogue, under the auspices of Saudi Arabia, aims to create a serious political avenue that returns the issue to its rightful owners and ensures a fair resolution based on popular will in safe conditions.
Economic Responsibilities Amid Challenges
Despite the complexities of the current phase, the Yemeni government has not neglected its economic responsibilities. It continues to pay salaries, implement financial and administrative reforms, and advance an economic recovery program in collaboration with regional and international partners. The government and all state institutions will soon resume operations from within the country, paving the way for a phase of institutional stability, improved services, and enhanced trust among citizens and donor communities.
A Unified Military Structure
The formation of the Supreme Military Committee, in coordination with the Coalition for Legitimacy, represents a pivotal step toward unifying the armed forces and all military and security formations under the Ministries of Defense and Interior. This initiative aims to implement the Riyadh Agreement and build a professional national military capable of protecting the country and restoring state institutions, whether through peaceful means or military action, as dictated by national interests.
A Call for International Support
In closing, Ambassador Al-Saadi addressed the Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Somalia, the President of the Security Council, stating, “Yemen, like your country, Somalia, seeks to be a stabilizing force rather than a source of threat. This is a historic moment that your esteemed Council and the international community must seize by supporting these transformations sincerely to build the just and lasting peace our peoples deserve.”
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