Major General Tarek Saleh, a member of Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council and commander of the National Resistance, emphasized the critical importance of continued American support for Yemen in confronting Iranian threats and the Houthi militia.
This statement was made during a meeting with outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Yemen, Steven Fagin. Major General Saleh lauded Ambassador Fagin's role in strengthening bilateral cooperation and partnership, including joint coordination efforts in counter-terrorism and promoting security and stability.
Saleh expressed the Presidential Leadership Council's appreciation for U.S. positions supporting Yemen and its legitimate leadership. He stressed that sustained U.S. backing is crucial for enhancing the Yemeni state's capacity to address current challenges and counter the risks posed by ongoing Iranian interference through the designated terrorist Houthi militia, which continues to threaten Yemen, the region, and international shipping lanes in the Red Sea.
Ambassador Fagin, in turn, affirmed his country's commitment to further strengthening the partnership and joint coordination with the Presidential Leadership Council and the Yemeni government. He noted that this collaboration is vital for addressing existing challenges and supporting efforts to achieve security and stability.
The meeting occurs amid growing calls for increased international support for the Yemeni government and national forces opposing the Houthis. These calls are driven by the persistent threats emanating from the Iran-backed militia against regional security and international maritime routes, underscoring the significance of the ongoing U.S.-Yemen partnership in bolstering stability and confronting security challenges in the foreseeable future.