US envoy says Houthi attacks in Red Sea thwart Yemen peace process

US special envoy Tim Lenderking urges Houthis to stop their attacks on ships in Red Sea, stating they are endangering Yemen’s peace process and complicating distribution of humanitarian aid

The Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea, according to US special envoy Tim Lenderking’s statement on Wednesday, are endangering Yemen’s peace process. After returning from trips to Oman and Saudi Arabia, Lenderking called on the Houthis to stop their actions, highlighting the negative impact on the distribution of humanitarian goods.

In a virtual briefing, Lenderking said, “The Houthi must immediately halt their attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden because they are undermining progress on the Yemen peace process and complicating the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Yemenis and others in need, including the Palestinian people.”

One of the worst humanitarian catastrophes in history has been brought on by the Houthi-led alliance in Yemeni conflict against the Saudi-led army. The Houthi ship strikes, especially in the Red Sea, have complicated efforts to mediate a truce and launch a UN-led peace process.

Recent diplomatic trips by Lenderking to Saudi Arabia and Oman aimed to counter Houthi violence and redouble efforts to bring about a sustainable settlement for Yemen. He emphasized the negative effects of these attacks on ships arriving at the port of Hodeida, which is a vital lifeline for humanitarian relief.

The assaults have increased tensions in the area and hampered marine commerce. They are mostly the result of the use of drones and missiles. In November, the entire crew of the Galaxy Leader, a ship that transports automobiles, was taken by the Houthis in a noteworthy event.

Lenderking said that these acts damage the Houthis’ reputation as genuine players in the peace process in Yemen and denounced them. He demanded that the members of the Galaxy Leader’s crew be freed right away and emphasized that all sides must participate in a constructive dialogue to find a solution.

Source: AFP