[24/09/2026 04:59]

NEW YORK – SABA
Member of the Presidential Leadership Council Dr. Abdullah al-Alimi Baawzir met here with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas.

He discussed with her developments in Yemen and the region, as well as maritime security and the protection of international navigation.

Al-Alimi praised the EU’s support for the Yemeni government and called for continued assistance to address Yemen’s economic and humanitarian challenges and strengthen state institutions.

He warned of the recent Houthi military escalation and movements toward the Bab al-Mandab Strait, stressing that continued Iranian military support to the Houthis threatens Yemen’s stability and the security of the Red Sea and international trade.

He called for stronger implementation of the arms embargo and sanctions under UN Security Council Resolutions 2140 and 2216.

Al-Alimi also emphasized that securing the Red Sea requires strengthening Yemen’s own military, security, and coast guard capabilities. He praised the EU’s Operation Aspides and called for a long-term partnership with the Yemeni Coast Guard covering training, equipment, maritime surveillance, and information sharing.

He urged the EU and its member states to take stronger measures against the Houthis and their sources of financing and weapons, including consideration of designating the group as a terrorist organization.

Kallas reaffirmed the EU’s support for the government of Yemen and people, condemned Houthi military escalation and attacks.

She stressed the importance of protecting freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab.

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