Yemen's leader calls for UN action against Iranian-backed Houthis

Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war since 2014, triggered by the Houthi movement—backed by Iran—seizing the capital, Sana'a, and toppling the legitimate government. This ongoing conflict has seen the Houthis establish control over significant territory, including the capital, which has led to the Yemeni government's exile to Aden under Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi's leadership. In a recent address at the United Nations General Assembly, Alimi spotlighted the existential threat posed by Iranian imperialism and emphasized the Houthis' role as a terrorist organization, claiming they have become a danger to international security, rather than just a local insurrection. Alimi pointed to the urgent need for global intervention, warning that the situation in Yemen encapsulates the broader issues of terrorism, human rights, and the necessity for a firm stance against Iranian influence in the region. During his speech, the presidential leader outlined a grim picture of the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, which remains one of the worst globally, exacerbated by years of conflict and foreign intervention. He implored the UN to act decisively, framing Yemen's predicament not just as a domestic issue but as a litmus test for the United Nations' credibility and commitment to international law. Alimi reiterated that the Houthis now possess advanced Iranian weaponry, including missiles and drones, thereby posing a direct threat to global commerce, especially in maritime routes like the Red Sea, which are critical for international trade. Furthermore, the leader criticized former actions taken by global powers that inadvertently strengthened the Houthis, including the removal of their terrorist designation and the financial support to Iran, which has emboldened its regional proxies. A sharp rebuke was delivered against the international community's inaction in Yemen, with Alimi calling for recognition that the Houthis' attacks have wide-reaching implications beyond Yemen's borders. He warned that failure to address the growing threat of Iranian-backed militias would lead to a perilous situation not only for Yemen but also for other nations. Alimi's call for action aligns with his previous warnings, indicating that the cycle of violence and apathy will continue to escalate without a robust international response. As the Houthis continue their campaigns, there are fears that their actions will not only destabilize Yemen further but also create a ripple effect throughout the Middle East, engaging other nations in conflict due to their strategies of blackmail and terror. In light of these developments, Alimi underscored the necessity of imposing peace with strength rather than waiting for it to be willingly presented. His address at the UN comes at a time of escalating tensions in the region and highlights Yemen's dire need for international attention, with calls for an organized global response to counter Iranian support for militant groups operating within and beyond Yemen's borders. As the Yemeni government continues its struggle for recognition and support, the future of Yemen remains precarious, hinged on the international community’s ability to respond assertively to the growing threat from the Houthis and their Iranian backers.