Bab El-Mandeb Oil Route Blocked, Yemen in Dire Straits: Mutahir Al-Ashabi
Yemen’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Muhammad Mutahir Al-Ashabi, has spoken with journalists in Islamabad, highlighting the dire situation currently facing his country. He specifically drew attention to the blockage of the Bab el-Mandeb oil route, a crucial international passage for energy, oil, and food, which he says is creating a global energy challenge.
Key Points:
- Yemen’s Situation: Al-Ashabi describes Yemen’s current challenges as "extremely difficult," primarily concerning national integrity and sovereignty.
- Bab el-Mandeb: He emphasizes its importance as a global oil transit point, with 60% of global oil passing through it. Its closure would have significant repercussions.
- Peace vs. Houthi Agendas: The ambassador states that the Yemeni government prioritizes peace, while the Houthis pursue their own agenda, seeking power and marginalizing other Yemenis. He accuses them of refusing negotiations and escalating tensions.
- Saudi Arabia-Yemen Relations: He highlights Saudi Arabia as Yemen’s most important and largest partner and details an international agreement regarding border areas with Saudi Arabia, including Najran and Jazan.
- Yemen’s Resources: Despite challenges, Al-Ashabi notes Yemen’s significant oil and gas reserves, and accuses the Houthis of obtaining weapons through sea routes while the US remains a passive observer.
*Quotes (italicized for emphasis):
"60 percent of oil passes through Bab el-Mandeb, and its closure would create a global energy challenge."
"The Houthis have their own agenda and want to gain power and turn other Yemenis into second-class citizens."
"Pakistan is an important country that could do—and is doing—a great deal."
