ADEN — Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) Chairman Rashad al-Alimi asserted Tuesday that securing the Red Sea necessitates addressing Iran's destabilizing influence within Yemen, urging international actors to prioritize actions.

Speaking to a European Parliament delegation led by Foreign Affairs Committee Chair David McAllister, Al-Alimi emphasized that "the Yemeni battlefield is the true measure of Iran's intentions," highlighting that Red Sea security originates from stability in southern Yemen.

He raised concerns about the escalating coordination between the Iran-backed Houthi rebels and extremist groups in the Horn of Africa, characterizing it as a significant threat to global security, according to state media.

Al-Alimi called for decisive international action to weaken the Houthis, including severing their funding, reclaiming territory, and halting arms supplies. He underscored the urgency for global support to enable the Yemeni government to restore sovereignty over all Yemeni territory.
He further urged the international community to permanently designate the Houthis as a regional terrorist threat and intensify pressure on Iran and its proxies. Al-Alimi argued that Tehran uses diplomatic engagements, including nuclear talks, as a facade to maintain its regional influence, demonstrating no genuine intent to alter its behavior.

Acknowledging the EU's support for the Yemeni government and humanitarian aid, he reiterated the PLC's commitment to strengthening global partnerships to combat Houthi aggression.
"Our goal is to develop a unified deterrent strategy that compels the Houthis to respect the will of the Yemeni people, whether through peaceful negotiations or, if necessary, through military force," Al-Alimi stated.