In a bold statement addressing the escalating tensions in the Red Sea region, US Special Envoy for Yemen, Tim Lenderking, squarely pointed fingers at Iran and the Houthi militias in Yemen, accusing them of “militarizing” the strategic waterway. Lenderking’s remarks, conveyed exclusively to Asharq Al-Awsat, underscored the urgent need for a cessation of piracy and terrorism targeting shipping routes, which are crucial arteries for global trade.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Lenderking emphasized that the military measures undertaken by the United States and its allies were not directed against the people of Yemen but aimed at countering the military capabilities of the Houthi insurgents. He categorically labeled the Houthis as a global terrorist organization, signaling a hardening stance against the group.
The US envoy’s comments precede a pivotal visit to the Gulf, where he plans to engage with regional partners to address the pressing imperative of de-escalating tensions. The focal point of discussions will be the cessation of Houthi attacks, which not only imperil freedom of navigation in the Red Sea but also impede progress on the fragile Yemeni peace process.
Lenderking did not mince words in condemning the Houthis’ actions, likening them to acts of piracy that undermine not only regional stability but also the broader interests of the international community. He stressed the detrimental impact of Houthi attacks on the Palestinian cause, underscoring their disruptive effect on humanitarian aid and economic prosperity in Yemen and beyond.
The US envoy’s remarks underscored Iran’s complicity in exacerbating regional tensions, with Lenderking accusing Tehran of playing a pivotal role in destabilizing the Middle East. He lamented Iran’s persistent pattern of fueling conflicts and reiterated calls for Tehran to desist from arming and financing proxy groups like the Houthis.
Furthermore, Lenderking shed light on the adverse economic repercussions of Houthi attacks, which have led to skyrocketing shipping costs and logistical disruptions. These disruptions not only inflate the prices of essential commodities but also prolong the suffering of vulnerable populations, including those in Yemen and Palestine.
Amidst the escalating tensions, Lenderking reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the United States to the peace process in Yemen. He underscored the indispensable role of American support in facilitating inter-Yemeni dialogue and negotiations, emphasizing the imperative of preserving hard-won gains in the quest for lasting peace.
In response to the escalating threat posed by Houthi attacks, the “Prosperity Guardian” international coalition was formed to safeguard shipping lanes and protect maritime interests. Lenderking clarified that the coalition’s defensive posture was aimed at shielding international shipping crews from indiscriminate Houthi aggression.
While acknowledging Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in mediating peace efforts in Yemen, Lenderking called upon all stakeholders to redouble their efforts in pursuit of a negotiated settlement. He expressed appreciation for Saudi-led initiatives aimed at bridging divides and fostering consensus among Yemeni factions.
Despite the daunting challenges posed by Houthi belligerence and Iranian meddling, Lenderking remained cautiously optimistic about the prospects for peace in Yemen. He urged all parties to prioritize dialogue over confrontation, warning against the catastrophic consequences of continued escalation.
As the Red Sea region teeters on the brink of heightened hostilities, Lenderking’s clarion call for de-escalation serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for concerted international action to avert a humanitarian catastrophe and reignite hopes for a peaceful resolution to the Yemeni conflict.
