Iran’s interference in Yemen helps Al-Qaeda and Daesh, warns UAE

The UAE’s minister of state warned on Wednesday that Iranian interference in the affairs of the Arab states and its support for the Houthis in Yemen create a suitable environment for extremist organisations, including Al-Qaeda and Daesh, AlKhaleejonline.com has reported. Anwar Qarqash made his comments while speaking at the 34th meeting of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

“The ousting of the legitimate government in Yemen by the Houthis and Saleh forces has led to violations of the basic rights of Yemenis through the arrest, torture and killing of thousands of people,” he pointed out. This has also had an effect on the provision of humanitarian aid, added the minister, “contributing to the suffering of the people of Yemen.”

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What Qarqash called “Iranian interference” is direct support for the Houthis and forces loyal to the former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, such as the supply of weapons, including missiles. “Thousands of missiles have been launched against Saudi Arabia and caused havoc and death,” he claimed. It is in this sort of environment that extremism can develop, warned the UAE official.

His country, explained Qarqash, is part of the Arab coalition aiming to restore stability in Yemen. He stressed the importance of reinstating the internationally-recognised government of President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi.

All of the parties in Yemen need to commit themselves to the political process and carry out the requirements of UN Security Council resolutions, the UAE minister concluded. “These stipulate a halt to Iranian support for the Houthis.”