Yemen appeals for comprehensive action against Houthis

Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council expresses dissatisfaction with US and UK “defensive” strikes against Houthis

Yemen’s internationally recognized government on Saturday, expressed dissatisfaction with recent “defensive” strikes conducted by the US and UK against Houthi rebels.

According to Rashad al-Alimi, head of the PLC, defensive measures are deemed inadequate, prompting a call for broader support from the US and Saudi Arabia to completely neutralize the Houthis’ military capabilities.

This appeal comes in the aftermath of a US strike targeting an anti-ship missile in Houthi-held Yemen. The strike was a response to the rebels causing a fire on a British tanker in the Gulf of Aden using a similar munition. The US and UK had previously conducted joint strikes on Jan 12, aiming to diminish the Houthis’ ability to target vessels in the Red Sea. The rebels claim these attacks are in solidarity with Palestinians in the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Both Washington and London have justified their actions as “self-defense” operations. Al-Alimi, leading the PLC based in Aden, stressed the need for further assistance in ground operations against the Houthis, emphasizing the essential role of Yemeni forces as partners in such endeavors. While expressing support for peace efforts, Al-Alimi accused the Houthis and Iran of hindering the peace process, highlighting the challenges in reaching a ceasefire amid escalating regional tensions.<

Source: AFP