On December 15, 2024, intensive meetings between Yemeni and American officials addressed bilateral relations and future collaboration, particularly in counterterrorism and organized crime.

Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council President Rashad Al-Alimi met with Jesse Levinson, the U.S. State Department's Director for Counterterrorism in South, Central, and East Asia, alongside U.S. Ambassador Stephen Fagin. During the discussions, Al-Alimi highlighted the Yemeni government's reform efforts in security, law enforcement, and counterterrorism, emphasizing the need for support to enhance capabilities against various threats.

He also raised concerns regarding Houthi threats and their alliances, including severe human rights violations, assaults, and ongoing piracy against commercial vessels, allegedly supported by the Iranian regime.

Al-Alimi praised the strong cooperation between the two countries in combating terrorism, expressing hope for increased international pressure on the Houthi militia, including its designation as a terrorist organization and efforts to cut off its funding and arms supply.

In a separate meeting in Riyadh, U.S. Ambassador Stephen Fagin discussed Houthi threats and the regional situation with Deputy Presidential Leadership Council Head Abdulrahman Al-Mahrimi. The Yemeni embassy reported that they also addressed Yemen's economic situation and the importance of implementing internal reforms to combat corruption.

Additionally, Yemen's Interior Minister Ibrahim Haidan met with Levinson and Fagin to discuss enhancing security cooperation between the two nations, focusing on technology and information security to tackle terrorism and security challenges facing Yemen and the region.

Haida emphasized the importance of international support for the Yemeni government’s efforts to stabilize the country and confront terrorist groups, particularly the Iranian-backed Houthis threatening Yemen's safety and that of its neighbors. He also outlined ongoing efforts to rebuild security forces and improve operational capabilities despite current challenges.

Levinson commended Yemen’s counterterrorism efforts and expressed the U.S. willingness to support these initiatives through training, technical assistance, and capacity building. Ambassador Fagin reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to promoting stability in Yemen and supporting sustainable peace efforts.