[08/09/2026 09:33]

CAIRO – SABA
The Republic of Yemen has affirmed that the security of the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait and Gulf of Aden represents a fundamental pillar of the Arab national security system.

It stressed that building sustainable security in this region is not limited to protecting ships at sea, but begins with empowering the coastal states—foremost among them the Yemeni state—to exercise their sovereign responsibilities over their coastlines, ports, and territorial waters, while strengthening the capabilities of naval forces and coast guards.

This was stated in the Republic of Yemen’s address before the Council of the League of Arab States at its 166th regular session, delivered by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriate Affairs, Dr. Afrah al-Zouba.

“The Yemeni people have been living for twelve years under extremely harsh conditions as a result of the coup carried out by the terrorist Houthi militias against state institutions and the political consensus, followed by violations affecting the lives, rights, and resources of Yemenis, with repercussions extending to threats against regional security and international maritime routes,” said al- Zouba.

She added: “the terrorist Houthi militias have exploited periods of de-escalation to strengthen their military capabilities and have expanded their attacks on liberated areas and maritime routes,” stressing that these developments require a firm Arab position supporting the Yemeni government in restoring state institutions, extending its sovereignty over the entire territory of the Republic, and ending the coup.

On the economic and development front, Minister al-Zouba stressed Yemen’s need for Arab support that moves from emergency response toward a sustainable path of recovery, development, and reconstruction. She praised the economic, development, and humanitarian assistance provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as its pivotal role in supporting state institutions and strengthening economic and monetary stability.

She also emphasized the importance of establishing an Arab Fund to finance the Development Needs Plan, which would mobilize Arab resources and direct them toward essential services, infrastructure, and the national economy, helping transform Arab solidarity with Yemen into tangible programs and projects.

The Foreign Minister renewed her affirmation that the Palestinian cause will remain the central issue of the Arab nation. She reaffirmed the Republic of Yemen’s support for the rights of the Palestinian people and for the establishment of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state along the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.

She also reiterated Yemen’s rejection of forced displacement and settlement expansion.

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