The U.S. Special Envoy to Yemen, Tim Lindekring, confirmed that Yemenis have an opportunity to achieve peace in their country amid ongoing negotiations to end the conflict. He praised regional efforts that have sustained the truce for over a year, while emphasizing that an eight-year conflict requires time to resolve. In a press briefing regarding his recent visit to the region and Yemen, he pointed out that Iran continues to fuel the conflict in Yemen and "is still smuggling weapons and drugs into Yemen" despite its agreement with Saudi Arabia to restore diplomatic relations, expressing concern from his country in this regard.
He noted that the United States is monitoring the situation and that, prior to reopening its embassy in Sana'a, it "needs to ensure that the war in Yemen has ended" and that the political process is moving forward. However, he stressed that "the activities of the Houthis are frustrating" and that time will reveal "whether Iran will adhere to its commitments," which remains an additional concern for Washington.
The American envoy stated that these concerns should be shared by all, hoping that "Iran will change its behavior following the agreement with Saudi Arabia." Regarding the Saudi-Iranian agreement, Lindekring reiterated his country's welcome of it, especially if it contributes to reducing tensions, adding that international efforts have played a vital role in creating a positive atmosphere to support international resolutions and achieve peace.
