Skip to main content

In the wake of news that the Trump Administration is preparing to engage in direct talks with the Houthi forces in Yemen, Al Jezeera spoke with Hassan El-Tayyab, FCNL’s Legislative Representative for Middle East Policy.

According to reports, the U.S. is pushing the the Saudi-coalition to engage in peace talks with Houti leaders in Oman in the hopes of brokering a cease-fire in Yemen.

“Right now, the [Trump] administration and the United states have a lot of leverage over this situation because of our military aid to both Saudi Arabia and the UAE’s war in Yemen,” said El-Tayyab.

The Saudi-led war and de-facto blockade of Yemen has plunged the country into the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. The United Nations estimates that 3 million Yemenis have been displaced by the war and the country’s economy is in ruins. Some 14 million people — half of Yemen’s population — are on the brink of starvation.

U.S. military involvement in the civil war in Yemen has included arms sales to Saudi Arabia and its allies, mid-air refueling of coalition aircraft, and targeting and logistical support.

Hassan El-Tayyab

Hassan El-Tayyab

Legislative Director for Middle East Policy and Advocacy Organizer

Hassan El-Tayyab is an author, songwriter, and FCNL’s legislative director for Middle East policy and advocacy organizer.