The US Special Envoy for Yemen, Tim Lenderking, has stated that the United States will not allow other regional events to delay peace efforts in Yemen. However, he criticized the Houthi rebels, designated as a terrorist group by several countries, for hindering progress and called for an immediate end to their attacks on ships in the Red Sea.

In an interview with Al Jazeera on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, seen by "Barran Press", Lenderking condemned the Houthis' actions in the Red Sea, stating that they are "obstructing peace efforts in Yemen." He accused the group of using the ongoing war in Gaza as a pretext to expand their influence in the region.

Lenderking also expressed concern over the recent attack on a Greek oil tanker in the Red Sea and emphasized the need for international cooperation to prevent a maritime and environmental disaster. He called for the immediate unloading of the tanker's cargo.

Regarding the recent Israeli airstrikes on the port of Hodeidah in Yemen, Lenderking stated that the US "will not condone any attack by any party that harms civilians." He acknowledged the existence of an international coalition targeting Houthi military capabilities in response to the attacks on ships.

Lenderking stressed that the ongoing conflict is preventing Yemenis from meeting their basic needs and further hindering the path towards a genuine peace process. He emphasized the importance of moving beyond the truce that began in April 2022 to create a brighter future for the Yemeni people.

During his recent visit to the United Kingdom, Lenderking discussed Yemen's development and economic assistance with London officials, as well as ways to advance a comprehensive peace process. However, he accused the Houthis of obstructing this effort by halting the agreed-upon roadmap for peace.

The roadmap for peace, agreed upon by Yemeni parties in December 2022, included a nationwide ceasefire, measures to improve living conditions in Yemen, and preparations for a comprehensive political process under the auspices of the United Nations. However, the Houthis' attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Gulf of Aden since November 2023 have stalled progress.