Al-Alimi: UN Chapter VII Blocks Defense Partnership with Russia — Houthis Understand Only the Language of Force

Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi revealed that Yemen's status under Chapter VII of the UN Charter poses a significant obstacle to acquiring air defense systems from Russia, despite what he described as Moscow's "clear political support" for Yemen’s internationally recognized government and UN Resolution 2216.

In an interview with Russia Today, Al-Alimi dismissed claims of any Russian military support to the Houthi group, stressing that Russia remains committed to international legitimacy. However, he noted that legal restrictions under Chapter VII hinder meaningful defense cooperation between the two nations.

Al-Alimi reaffirmed that the Yemeni government continues to pursue a political solution to end the war. However, the Iranian-backed Houthis have repeatedly rejected all peace initiatives, including the Saudi-proposed roadmap that was accepted by the Presidential Council.

He also discussed the Houthis’ seizure of three planes carrying Yemeni pilgrims at Sana’a airport, which were later destroyed. A fourth aircraft was destroyed by an Israeli airstrike after being forced to return to Sana’a.

Al-Alimi emphasized that any future settlement must address the Southern issue through peaceful dialogue and represent the aspirations of the Yemeni people for a fair and inclusive state.

Concluding his remarks, he warned against continued international leniency toward the Houthis, describing them as no different in behavior from ISIS and al-Qaeda, and asserting that only force will compel them to accept peace.

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