Secretary of State Marco Rubio had a conversation with Yemeni Prime Minister Ahmed bin Mubarak, according to Spokesperson Tammy Bruce. The discussion focused on collaboration to halt Houthi attacks in the region and dismantle their capabilities. They addressed the importance of resolving the Houthi threat to maritime security in the Red Sea and nearby waterways. Both officials expressed concerns about unlawful detentions by the Houthis involving diplomatic personnel, UN staff, and NGO workers, including current and former Yemeni employees of the U.S. Mission to Yemen. Recent detentions of additional UN staff were also mentioned.
Secretary Rubio emphasized President Biden's Executive Order re-designating the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization as an essential measure against them. He conveyed his intention to continue supporting the Republic of Yemen Government in its efforts against the Houthis.
