US Says Houthis Bear ‘Major Responsibility’ in Yemen Conflict

The Iran-backed Houthi militias have failed to try to secure a ceasefire and take move toward resolving the brutal conflict, the State Department said on Friday.

“While there are numerous problematic actors inside of Yemen, the Houthis bear major responsibility for refusing to engage meaningfully on a ceasefire and to take steps to resolve a nearly seven-year conflict that has brought unimaginable suffering to the Yemeni people,” the department said after special US envoy Tim Lenderking returned from the region.

“Instead, the Houthis continue a devastating offensive on Marib that is condemned by the international community and leaves the Houthis increasingly isolated,” it added.

Lenderking visited Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan.

During his trip, he met with senior government officials, international partners and Yemenis to discuss the humanitarian and economic crisis in Yemen and the urgent need for a comprehensive ceasefire to bring relief to Yemenis, continued the statement.

He coordinated closely with UN Special Envoy Martin Griffiths during his trip and welcomed Griffiths’ latest trip to Sanaa, which is held by the Houthis.

During his meetings with Yemenis, Lenderking also discussed the need to strengthen inclusive processes that enable the country’s citizens to discuss the future of their country and amplify voices for peace, said the State Department.