Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council, led by Rashad Al-Alimi, has sought support from US President Donald Trump in its fight against Houthi forces. According to a source in Al-Alimi's office, the Yemeni leader made the request during a phone call with Trump on Sunday. The call comes as the conflict in Yemen escalates, with Houthi forces recently gaining control of the country's Red Sea coast.
The source, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that Trump did not commit to providing US support, but the call represents a significant political gesture of support for the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council. This development occurs amidst a backdrop of increased tensions between the Houthis, who are allied with Iran, and Saudi Arabia, a key US ally in the region.
In a separate statement, Trump claimed that the Houthis had agreed not to attack the United States. According to Fox News, Trump stated that the US is in constant communication with the Houthis and that they have agreed not to engage in combat with American forces. This assertion comes despite ongoing clashes between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia.
The situation in Yemen remains volatile, with the Houthis having recently launched a surprise attack to capture the country's Red Sea coast. In response to the escalating conflict, the US has indicated that it will not launch offensive strikes against Houthi positions. According to CNN, US officials have stated that Saudi Arabia is receiving all the support it needs from the US.
Trump has emphasized that his "red line" is direct US intervention in strikes against Houthi targets. An unnamed US official confirmed that there will be no offensive strikes, highlighting the complexities of US involvement in the conflict. The stance reflects a cautious approach by the US in a region marked by intricate alliances and rivalries.
During a visit to Ireland on September 12, Trump revealed that he had direct communication with Houthi leaders. He stated that the Houthis had initiated contact and expressed their desire not to engage in conflict with the US. Trump expressed optimism about the situation, suggesting that everything would "work out fine" in the region.
The conversation between Trump and Houthi leaders underscores the multifaceted nature of the conflict in Yemen. While the Houthis have reportedly expressed a desire not to clash with the US, they have ongoing disputes with other regional actors. Trump hinted at these complexities, mentioning that there is one country with which the Houthis are not pleased, without specifying further.
Key points
- Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council seeks US support against Houthi forces amid escalating conflict.
- US President Donald Trump claims Houthis agree not to attack the United States.
- US to avoid offensive strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.
