For two decades, Yemen has been plagued by war and instability. Despite endless talks of peace and stability, the people of this Middle Eastern country continue to suffer, caught in the crossfire between warring factions.
The United States, often seen as a global leader in promoting democracy and peace, has played a significant role in this ongoing conflict. While the US has been vocal about its efforts to bring peace to Yemen, the reality on the ground tells a different story. In fact, the US has been at war in Yemen for 20 years, and the recent Houthi attack on a Saudi Arabian oil facility has only highlighted the devastating consequences of this prolonged conflict.
In a recent article published by The Intercept, journalist Alex Emmons delves into the complicated history of US involvement in Yemen and the current situation that has led to the Houthis’ ability to choke the Red Sea. Emmons points out that the US began its military operations in Yemen after the 9/11 attacks, with the aim of targeting Al-Qaeda militants in the country. However, as the years went by, the US involvement in Yemen shifted from counterterrorism efforts to supporting the Saudi-led coalition against the Houthis.
This change in focus has had dire consequences for the people of Yemen, who have borne the brunt of this conflict for two decades. The ongoing airstrikes and naval blockades have made it difficult for humanitarian aid to reach those in need, resulting in a dire humanitarian crisis. According to the United Nations, more than 24 million people in Yemen are in need of urgent assistance, with millions facing hunger and displacement.
The recent Houthi attack on a Saudi Arabian oil facility is a direct consequence of this prolonged conflict. The Houthis, who have been fighting a war against the Yemeni government and its allies, including Saudi Arabia and the US, have resorted to targeting Saudi interests in retaliation for the ongoing airstrikes and blockade. This attack has once again exposed the fragility of the situation in Yemen and the urgent need for all parties involved to work towards a peaceful resolution.
Emmons highlights how the US has consistently overlooked the violence and human rights violations committed by its allies in Yemen, particularly Saudi Arabia. Despite mounting evidence of war crimes and civilian casualties, the US has continued to support the Saudi-led coalition with arms sales and intelligence sharing. This has only prolonged the conflict and resulted in further suffering for the Yemeni people.
It’s time for the US to take a hard look at its involvement in Yemen and reassess its priorities. The constant talk of peace and stability must be backed by concrete actions, which means holding all parties accountable for their actions and actively working towards a peaceful resolution. It also means prioritizing the needs of the Yemeni people and providing the necessary humanitarian aid to alleviate their suffering.
The Houthis’ ability to choke the Red Sea is a wake-up call for the US and its allies. It’s time to prioritize ending this conflict over any political or economic interests. The people of Yemen have suffered enough, and it’s time for them to see tangible efforts towards peace and stability. The US must also reassess its relationship with Saudi Arabia and hold them accountable for their actions in Yemen.
In conclusion, the situation in Yemen is dire, and the US must take responsibility for its role in this ongoing conflict. The recent attack on a Saudi Arabian oil facility only highlights the consequences of this 20-year-long war, and the urgent need for all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution. The people of Yemen deserve peace and stability, and it’s time for the US to step up and make that a reality.
