An official of Yemen's Houthi group said on Thursday that the group has always responded to the Omani mediator, who has conveyed many messages from various parties, including the United States, as its conflict with the government forces keeps escalating.
Abdullah Sabri, undersecretary of the Houthis' Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates for Political Affairs in Sanaa, made the remarks in an interview with the China Global Television Network (CGTN) in the Yemeni capital.
"The Omani mediator continues to convey messages. In other words, the window is open if I may put it that way. It is an open political and diplomatic window serving the interests of various parties. We have always responded to the Omani mediator or to the messages that come through Oman. Oman has previously conveyed many messages between Sanaa and various parties, including the United States," said Sabri.
A U.S. media outlet reported that U.S. diplomats had met with Houthi group representatives over the weekend on the situation in the Red Sea.
Sources said the meeting was held with the assistance of the Omani government, with discussions focusing on maintaining the ceasefire agreement reached between the United States and the Houthi group in May last year, as well as keeping the Bab al-Mandab Strait open for navigation.
The Houthi representatives said they hoped to uphold the ceasefire agreement with the United States, and stressed that their attacks are only aimed at Saudi Arabian vessels while all other ships enjoy free passage through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the sources said.
In response, Sabri said: "there is no such thing as Oman talks. In other words, the American statements are based on a misconception. The reality today, as far as Sanaa is concerned, is that we remain committed to the ceasefire with the United States concluded or announced in 2025, and our operations are specific. Our latest escalation is directed toward imposing a maritime blockade on Saudi shipping only, and we have not announced the targeting of any U.S. vessels or others."
Sabri denied any "direct talks or announced talks" with the United States.
"There are no direct talks or announced talks with the U.S. side in the first place. We also hear, as you do, through statements and media leaks from the U.S. side, and we consider these leaks and statements indirect messages to Sanaa," he said.
Houthi official clarifies stance on communication with US through Omani mediator
