Barran Press
Aden, Yemen - Yemeni military spokesperson Brigadier General Abdo Mejalli has accused Iran of directly controlling the Houthi rebels, citing the recent appointment of a "Houthi ambassador" in Sana'a as evidence of Tehran's direct involvement.
In an interview with the Middle East newspaper, Mejalli stated that the presence of a senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps official under the guise of an ambassador in the Houthi-controlled capital is a blatant violation of Yemeni sovereignty and international law. He further asserted that the previous Iranian "ambassador," Hassan Irloo, was directly involved in managing Houthi military operations against Yemen and neighboring countries.
Regarding US airstrikes against Houthi targets, Mejalli expressed dissatisfaction with their effectiveness, describing them as "lacking decisiveness" and "flexible." He argued that the US response has not effectively destroyed Houthi missile capabilities or drone launch sites, suggesting a reluctance to fully engage with the militia.
Mejalli emphasized that Houthi attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea are a direct manifestation of Iran's regional expansionist agenda. These attacks, he argued, not only threaten regional and international security but also exacerbate the suffering of the Yemeni people and undermine efforts to end the war.
He called on the international community to support the legitimate Yemeni government and its armed forces, which he believes are capable of eradicating the Houthi militia and ending their terrorist activities.
Mejalli also highlighted the Houthi's continued attacks on Yemeni cities and military positions using artillery and drones, as well as their ongoing efforts to recruit and mobilize sectarian forces in areas under their control. He condemned these actions as part of a criminal project aimed at subjugating the Yemeni people.
The Houthi militia, designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, has been targeting commercial shipping vessels in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Gulf of Aden since November 2023. These attacks have led to increased maritime insurance costs and forced many international shipping companies to opt for longer routes around the southern tip of Africa.
In December 2023, the United States formed a multinational coalition to deter Houthi attacks and protect maritime navigation. US forces have conducted intermittent airstrikes against Houthi military targets.