Bab Al-Mandab will not be a bargaining chip for terrorists, says Yemen FM

Yemen's Foreign Minister Afrah Al-Zouba has declared that the Bab Al-Mandab Strait will not be exploited as a bargaining chip by armed groups. She emphasized Yemen's sovereignty over its waters, stating that the strategic passage will not be used as leverage in any conflict. The minister emphasized that Yemen's resources and maritime corridors will not be held hostage by an endless war that benefits Iran and endangers neighboring nations.

She further explained that the Houthi militia's missile strike on the Mocha port was an attempt to target a vital lifeline for the Yemeni people. Al-Zouba highlighted that the militia's persistent targeting of this area underscores the critical need for the state and its forces to combat arms smuggling and secure these maritime passages.

She strongly stressed that empowering the Yemeni state, its naval forces, and coast guard to perform their duties in this crucial region is an investment in the security of Yemen, the wider region, and global trade.