Yemen's Vice-Chair Raises Concerns: Airstrikes May Strengthen Houthis' Grip

Tuesday 24 September 2024 - 12:46

In an exclusive interview, Aidarous al-Zubaidi, the vice-chair of Yemen's UN-recognized government, has expressed grave concerns over the recent US-UK airstrikes in Yemen. The airstrikes, intended to curb the Houthi disruption of commercial shipping, have failed to significantly weaken the group's military might, according to al-Zubaidi.

He fears that the airstrikes are playing into the hands of the Houthis, who are using the situation to rally support and portray themselves as defenders against western aggression. Al-Zubaidi calls for a unified strategy, involving the west, the region, and the Yemeni government, to counter the Houthis effectively.

"The airstrikes are having a counterproductive effect," al-Zubaidi stated. "They are strengthening the Houthis' narrative and mobilizing support for their cause. The local perception is that the Houthis are under attack, and they are presenting themselves as defenders of Yemen's sovereignty."

The leader of Yemen's separatist Southern Transitional Council, which holds a significant presence in the Presidential Leadership Council, highlights the lack of coordination among regional powers and the need for a comprehensive approach. He believes that the Houthis, with their resilience and adaptability, have been able to evade attacks and continue their military operations.

"The problem lies in the absence of a unified front," al-Zubaidi explained. "The Arab coalition's efforts have been fragmented, and the Houthis have exploited this to their advantage. They receive high-quality weapons from Iran and Russia, which arrive at Red Sea ports without proper inspection."

Al-Zubaidi's assessment of the situation is a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges faced in Yemen. With the Houthis consolidating their power and adopting a more assertive stance, a new strategy is urgently required to bring stability to the region.

As the Yemeni government delegation attends the UN General Assembly in New York, al-Zubaidi emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in the peace process. "The Houthis now see themselves as the state, and they are not interested in power-sharing. We need a coordinated international effort to contain and weaken them," he said.