#New York #Red Sea #Yemen #Houthi

On September 23, 2026, during a roundtable with international journalists, Yemen's Vice President H.E. Abdullah Al-Alimi Bawazir emphasized that the maritime security crisis affecting the Red Sea is deeply intertwined with issues on land, urging global recognition that protecting sea lanes begins by addressing the militia threats on Yemen’s territory. He stated that the tensions in the Bab al-Mandab strait did not originate at sea, but rather the day when Sanaa fell to milita factions.

The Vice President pointed out the long-standing perception of the Yemeni crisis, primarily viewed through humanitarian or civil war lenses, limits understanding of the situation's nuances. "Yemen's security is not just a national issue; it is intertwined with global energy supplies and regional stability. The challenges stemming from the coup by the Houthis will affect global shipping if not addressed decisively," he remarked, highlighting the need for a concerted international effort to restore Yemen's sovereignty.

Bawazir cautioned against attempts to secure the Red Sea exclusively from maritime angles stating, "We could protect ships today, but tomorrow could pose different risks if the root causes remain unaddressed." He argued that effective maritime security requires a strong and capable Yemeni state that can manage its territory, rejecting the notion of reliance on foreign forces to fight on Yemen's behalf. Rather than advocating for outside military intervention, he called for support aimed at empowering the Yemeni government.

The Vice President acknowledged the U.S. financial and military measures taken against the Houthis, recognizing their influence in curbing damage the militias could cause. However, he warned that aerial campaigns alone wouldn't guarantee safety for maritime operations; supporting local governance is crucial for sustained stability against militia threat.

During the discussion, he referenced evidence from the UN Expert Panel reports on Iranian support for the Houthis, asserting that such sponsorship has enabled the group to pose `real and validated threats` to maritime operations. This evidence includes analyzed weaponry that originated from Iran, emphasizing the importance of addressing these support channels to mitigate threats to global commerce flowing through the critical Bab al-Mandab strait.

Adding a note of caution, he asserted, "Accepting assurances from the militia cannot be seen as a legitimate safeguard for our maritime traffic, as they operate outside of state control. We must work together for a comprehensive approach that includes both regional security and international engagement to ensure true independence and governance within Yemen."

To conclude, Bawazir reiterated, "The stability of Yemen is not isolated; it plays a significant role in the security framework of the region and beyond. Protecting navigation is a shared responsibility, and only through supporting the rights and governance of the Yemeni people can real change happen."

The session was facilitated by H.E. Ambassador Jamila Rajaa, who emphasized the necessity of having Yemen's perspective in international forums where critical decisions are made. She stressed, “Yemen must not be absent from discussions that affect its future."

With Yemen’s youth representing a significant portion of the population, Bawazir expressed hope for a secure and prosperous future, advocating for a new Yemen that can contribute positively to regional stability. By engaging the international community responsibly, he believes that a comprehensive strategy can emerge that not only resolves the ongoing conflict but also addresses its root causes head-on, leading to a sustainable peace for the nation and its people.