Barran Press
Yemen's Foreign Minister Shaea Al-Zindani said Tuesday the internationally recognized government supports any effort that weakens the Iran-backed Houthis, calling the group a terrorist entity and a key threat to regional security.
In an interview with Saudi newspaper Okaz, Al-Zindani criticized the 2018 decision that blocked government forces from entering Hodeidah, saying it allowed the Houthis to entrench their control over a strategic hub now threatening international maritime routes.
He stressed that restoring full control over Yemeni territory remains a top priority. “Had we been present across the map, there wouldn’t be this level of chaos or suffering in Yemen,” he said.
Addressing the broader conflict, Al-Zindani said the root issue lies in the Houthis’ armed takeover. “This is a coup. There are international and Yemeni resolutions backing the restoration of state authority,” he said.
Reclaiming Houthi-held areas, he argued, is not just a right but essential to peace and regional stability. “This state of rebellion cannot continue. It’s our duty to restore order and unify the country,” he added.
“Sana’a must be regained—no matter how long it takes,” Al-Zindani said, warning that if diplomacy fails, the government is prepared to return to military options.
While welcoming mediation efforts from Saudi Arabia and Oman, Al-Zindani cautioned against misreading the government’s willingness for peace as weakness. “If negotiations stall, we will turn to decisive action,” he said.
On Saudi Arabia’s role, he described the partnership as vital. “The Houthi coup was a direct threat to Yemen and the Kingdom. Saudi efforts to engage the Houthis in peace talks are appreciated, and their support remains critical,” he said.