The Presidential Leadership Council of Yemen convened yesterday to discuss strategies for enhancing both local and international coordination to safeguard the security of the Red Sea. As reported by the official Yemeni news agency, the meeting was chaired by President Rashad Al-Alimi, with the majority of council members present, along with Prime Minister Salem Bin Breik, to analyze recent security developments and the status of intelligence agencies involved in countering terrorism and organized crime.
The council expressed its approval of the achievements made by the mixed task forces, as well as the outcomes of recent international operations that successfully thwarted attempts to smuggle significant quantities of drugs and weapons. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to protect the Red Sea’s security and global shipping lanes while countering the destructive activities of Iranian networks and their proxies.
The council commended the accomplishments of the armed forces and security personnel in tracking down criminal cells collaborating with the Houthi militias, reaffirming the state’s commitment to combat terrorism and collaborate closely with regional and international partners to strengthen the capabilities of security agencies.
Additionally, the council underscored that the security of the Red Sea is a cornerstone for regional and global stability, noting that the actions of the Houthi militias—such as arms and drug smuggling and targeting commercial vessels—pose a direct threat to maritime peace and economic interests. This situation necessitates broader national and international coordination.
The council also reviewed a report from the committee focused on integrating security and intelligence agencies within the Central Security Agency, reiterating its support for the implementation plans to complete the integration process and enhance security operations, ultimately aiming to establish a professional national security body.
Recently, the Yemeni government announced the seizure of weapon and drug shipments that were reportedly destined for the Houthis.