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Iran FM to Asharq Al-Awsat: We Do Not Intervene in Lebanon, Oppose Syria Split

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi (Photo Credit: Ali Khamaj)
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi (Photo Credit: Ali Khamaj)
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Iran FM to Asharq Al-Awsat: We Do Not Intervene in Lebanon, Oppose Syria Split

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi (Photo Credit: Ali Khamaj)
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi (Photo Credit: Ali Khamaj)

Iran is prepared to resume nuclear negotiations with the United States if Washington provides assurances against aggression, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, warning that military strikes on Tehran’s nuclear facilities have failed to achieve their goals and will not succeed through talks either.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat in Jeddah, where he attended an extraordinary meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers on Gaza, Araghchi did not rule out the possibility of renewed confrontation with Israel.

“Anything is possible, and Tehran is prepared for all scenarios,” he said.

Araghchi said ties with Saudi Arabia have entered an “unprecedented phase of cooperation,” describing the Kingdom as a “major regional and Islamic power” alongside Iran.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat on the sidelines of the Jeddah meeting, Araghchi stressed that Tehran does not interfere in Lebanon’s internal affairs but voices its opinions like others. He said Hezbollah’s arsenal is an issue for the group and the Lebanese government, adding that “plans to disarm Hezbollah are entirely Israeli.”

Asked about recent comments by Iran’s defense minister on building military infrastructure abroad, Araghchi declined to elaborate, saying, “Any clarification must come from the defense minister himself.”

On threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, the Iranian minister underlined that Tehran’s official policy is “absolutely clear” in seeking peace and stability in the vital Gulf waterway. “Iran is a producer and exporter of oil, and its economy depends heavily on it. That is why it wants free navigation for everyone,” he said.

Araghchi spoke extensively on a wide range of regional issues.

Gaza: Action Over Statements

Araghchi said people in Gaza need food, water and medicine rather than political declarations, urging Muslim countries to take practical steps in support of Palestinians.

Araghchi said the OIC meeting, which convened at the request of Iran, Palestine and Türkiye, produced “good statements and important decisions” but stressed that action on the ground was critical.

“I emphasized in my remarks that Islamic countries must take practical steps. Those that maintain ties with the Zionist entity should cut them and halt trade — that is a concrete move that can be made,” he said.

He added that Muslim states should unite in international forums and courts to condemn Israel. “It is only natural that more than 50 Islamic countries and over a billion Muslims, with their vast resources, can mobilize to support Gaza and Palestine,” Araghchi said.

Nuclear Talks with the US

Iran remains ready to enter “fair and balanced” negotiations over its nuclear program but will only engage in indirect talks with the United States if Washington guarantees it will not carry out military attacks during the process, Araghchi said.

He told Asharq Al-Awsat that Tehran is already holding discussions with the three European signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal, as well as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to set out a new framework for negotiations.

“We are prepared for indirect talks with the United States, provided they reassure us there will be no military aggression during the talks,” Araghchi said.

“If they come to the table for fair negotiations built on mutual interests, that serves both sides. But if they believe they can achieve through negotiations what they failed to achieve through military strikes, then such talks will not happen.”

He added that Iran has never walked away from talks. “We were at the heart of negotiations when Israel attacked us and the United States joined in. That is why any future negotiations will not be like those in the past,” Araghchi said, stressing that Tehran’s stance on indirect talks with Washington “has not changed.”

Prepared for Any Scenario with Israel

Iran is prepared for any confrontation with Israel, Araghchi affirmed, warning that the outcome of the last conflict showed the futility of military action against Iran.

“Anything is possible, and we are ready for all circumstances,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat when asked about rising tensions and the prospect of a new clash with Israel.

“During the 12-day war, the Zionist entity and the United States failed to achieve any of their objectives, while Iran resisted heroically and responded to the aggression. We continued our missile strikes on Israel until the last moment, while they thought they could stop them in 48 hours.”

Araghchi said Israel eventually sought an unconditional ceasefire. “Since their request came without conditions, we accepted it. If they want to repeat the scenario, we are ready. The 12-day war proved that the military option is not a successful one - it is a failed one. That is why I doubt they will try again. But if they do, they will face a similar, even stronger, response,” he said.

Saudi and Regional Relations

Recent conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, as well as attacks on Iran, have convinced the region that Israel is the main threat, Araghchi said, adding that Tehran has stepped up efforts to build trust with Arab neighbors.

“I believe everyone now realizes that the entity threatening the whole region and seeking to keep it weak and divided is the Zionist entity,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat. He said regional states, without exception, stood by Iran and condemned both Israel and the US in the wake of the latest assault.

Araghchi noted that since Iran’s new government took office last year, he has worked to accelerate rapprochement with neighbors. “I personally met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman twice last year and also joined a meeting between him and Iran’s first vice president. Three meetings in one year are unprecedented in the history of relations between the two countries,” he said.

He added that Tehran had also revived contacts with other regional states, including Egypt and Jordan. “While diplomatic ties with Egypt are not yet at the highest level, I have had more phone calls and direct meetings with my Egyptian counterpart than with most other ministers in the region,” he said. Araghchi added that his talks showed regional governments now have greater confidence in Iran and share concerns about Israel’s threats.

Ties with Egypt

Araghchi said Tehran is in no hurry to formally raise its diplomatic relations with Cairo, though cooperation is ongoing and contacts are active.

“As with any two normal states, we have relations and cooperation, but formally upgrading diplomatic ties takes the right timing and we are not in a rush,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat.

He noted that both countries maintain “Interests Sections” in each other’s capitals, staffed by envoys with ambassadorial rank. “Just last night I had dinner with the Egyptian foreign minister, and we spoke for more than two hours,” he added.

Addressing sometimes conflicting messages from Iran, such as threats by some figures to close the Strait of Hormuz versus official calls for Gulf stability, Araghchi said such remarks do not reflect government policy.

“These are not statements by officials of Iran but by ordinary individuals or journalists with no responsibility. Iranian society is open, and you can hear all kinds of views. If you watch Iranian television, you will see nightly debates between someone calling to close Hormuz and another rejecting it,” he said.

Araghchi stressed that Iran’s official position is “absolutely clear.”

“We call for peace and calm in the Gulf. Like Saudi Arabia and other regional states, Iran is a producer and exporter of oil, and our economy depends heavily on it. It is natural that we want peace in the Gulf, free navigation for everyone, and normal shipping,” he said.

Iran: Israel Sought to Ignite ‘Oil War’ in Gulf During 12-Day Conflict

Israel tried to drag the region into an “oil war” by targeting Iran’s energy facilities during the recent 12-day conflict, but Tehran responded by striking Israeli sites while working to prevent the fighting from spilling into the Gulf, Araghchi revealed.

“During the 12-day war, when Israel attacked our oil installations in Asaluyeh, we realized they wanted to pull the war into the Gulf and ignite an ‘oil war,’” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat. “We responded by hitting Israeli facilities and did our utmost to prevent the conflict from spreading to the Gulf.”

He said Gulf Arab states should focus on the risks posed by Israeli policies rather than Iran. “Their concern should be directed at Israel’s actions, which could lead to closing the Strait of Hormuz and dragging the war into the region - not at Iran,” Araghchi said.

Iranian Defense Minister’s Remarks

Araghchi declined to comment on recent statements by Iran’s defense minister about building military infrastructure abroad, saying any clarification should come from the defense minister himself.

When asked to explain the remarks, Araghchi smiled and said: “Do you really expect me to answer such a question?” He added: “If further clarification was necessary, it should have been provided by the defense minister.”

Iran Says it Does Not Intervene in Lebanon

Araghchi said Tehran does not interfere in Lebanon’s internal affairs but expresses its opinions like other states, stressing that any disarmament of Hezbollah is an entirely Israeli initiative.

“We do not intervene in Lebanon’s internal matters, but that does not prevent us from voicing our positions, just as all countries do,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat.

“Saudi Arabia, for example, expresses its views on Lebanon, which is not considered interference. True interference is occupying Lebanese territory or imposing strange plans to undermine Lebanon.”

Araghchi said Hezbollah itself and the Lebanese government are responsible for decisions regarding the group’s weapons. “Hezbollah has proposed a national dialogue to determine Lebanon’s security strategy with the participation of all components. We are confident of one truth: Israel wants all regional states weak, disarmed, scattered, and in conflict,” he said.

He cited Syria as an example, noting that Israel had seized more territory and destroyed military capabilities under the new government compared with Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

“This is the scenario Israel seeks to implement in Lebanon, and Hezbollah’s resistance thwarted it. While the resistance has suffered attacks and damage recently, they think it has weakened. That is why they want to disarm it. But disarming Hezbollah is 100% an Israeli plan. The decision belongs to Hezbollah, the Lebanese government, and the Lebanese themselves; we only express our opinion,” Araghchi said.

He added that other regional states should recognize this reality and not underestimate the risk of similar scenarios in their countries.

“Enemies tried to target Iran, but it resisted, and they regretted it. How did Iran resist? Not through diplomacy or talks with the US, but with its missiles. It is strength, not concession, that counters Israel. We advise regional states not to make concessions to Israel; the more they give, the more it expands and grows bold. Recent statements by Netanyahu confirm Israel’s ambitions across the region,” he said.

Iran Says Ready to Work with Saudi Arabia on Lebanon

Araghchi said Tehran is willing to cooperate with Riyadh on Lebanon, describing recent talks with his Saudi counterpart as constructive.

“I met with Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in Jeddah, and we had a good discussion on Lebanon,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat. “Yes, there are differences in viewpoints, but we spoke calmly and in a positive atmosphere. We are ready to continue this dialogue with the Saudi side until we reach a point that can help ease this file.”

“I have no doubt that Saudi Arabia wants to help the Lebanese people, and so do we. The tools and methods may differ, but I have every hope that we can reach common ground,” he said.

Iran Backs Syrian Unity, Opposes Partition

Iran supports the territorial unity of Syria and opposes any attempts to partition the country, Araghchi said, condemning Israeli strikes on Syrian territory as the result of “excessive concessions” to Israel.

“Our position on Syria is very clear: we support Syria’s unity and the preservation of its sovereignty and borders, and we reject any attempts to divide it,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat.

“We also want stability and calm in Syria. Experience shows that without stability, the country can become a haven for terrorist groups, which is against the interests of any regional state.”

Araghchi said Iran has had no contact so far with Syria’s new government. “We are not in a rush. Whenever the new government in Syria realizes that relations with Iran serve Syria’s interests - both the government’s and the people’s - we will consider it,” he added.

Iran Says Saudi Arabia a Major Regional Power, Stresses Cooperation for Stability

Araghchi described Saudi Arabia as a “major country in the region and the Islamic world,” saying stability and peace can only be achieved through cooperation between Tehran and Riyadh.

“Saudi Arabia and Iran are both key poles in the region. Yes, there are differences and competition, but they should not become hostility,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat.

“The Saudi people are our religious brothers, and the Iranian people are your brothers and sisters. More than 80,000 Iranian pilgrims perform Hajj annually, and recently Umrah campaigns have started, with around 400,000 expected this year.”

He added that both countries share concerns for Islam, Muslim interests, and regional security.

“Cooperation serves bilateral relations, the region, and the Islamic world. Fortunately, new opportunities have opened in relations over recent years, especially last year. But economic ties have not yet been sufficiently developed, requiring more joint planning,” Araghchi said.

Highlighting people-to-people ties, he said: “We hope to see, in the near future, the same number of Saudi tourists visiting Iran as Iranians visiting Saudi Arabia. Iran’s nature, culture, history, and landmarks will offer them a rewarding experience and provide a firsthand view of Iran, away from the portrayal by Western media. A visitor’s first trip changes that perception entirely.”

Iran Hails ‘Strong, Excellent’ Saudi Stance During Recent Israel Tensions

Araghchi praised Saudi Arabia’s position during the recent confrontation between Iran and Israel, calling it “strong and excellent.”

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia took a very strong and excellent stance, whether in condemning Israeli and US attacks against Iran or in supporting Iran and the Iranian people,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat. “The same position was adopted by the Gulf Cooperation Council, which we consider extremely valuable.”

Iran Sees Economic Opportunities for Saudi Investors, Highlights Trade Potential

Araghchi said boosting trade and investment with Saudi Arabia is a priority, noting that both countries could supply many of each other’s needs more efficiently.

“Many goods currently sourced from distant countries could come from Iran, which is nearby, and similarly, many of our needs can be met by Saudi Arabia,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat. “Trade between us and one regional country alone reaches around $30 billion, showing that even under sanctions, substantial exchange is possible.”

He highlighted opportunities for Saudi investors in Iran, particularly in oil, gas, and other industries. “Iran has about 100 million people, and its geographic location makes it a key corridor to Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe via the Indian Ocean and the Chabahar port,” Araghchi said.

Iranian FM Expresses Optimism About Regional Cooperation

Araghchi expressed cautious optimism about the future of the region, saying diplomacy remains hopeful even amid tensions.

“Diplomats are always optimistic,” Araghchi told Asharq Al-Awsat. “I believe that if cooperation is achieved among regional countries, especially between Iran and Saudi Arabia, we will see a region marked by stability and calm, flourishing with progress and development. I am doing everything I can to guide Iranian diplomacy toward this goal.”

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Interviews

Al-Zouba to Asharq Al-Awsat: Yemen Will Not Be an Iranian Pawn

Dr. Afrah Al-Zouba, Yemen’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates (Yemeni Foreign Ministry).
Dr. Afrah Al-Zouba, Yemen’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates (Yemeni Foreign Ministry).
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Al-Zouba to Asharq Al-Awsat: Yemen Will Not Be an Iranian Pawn

Dr. Afrah Al-Zouba, Yemen’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates (Yemeni Foreign Ministry).
Dr. Afrah Al-Zouba, Yemen’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates (Yemeni Foreign Ministry).

Yemeni Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Dr. Afrah Al-Zouba said the Yemeni government has entered a phase of restoring the state after exhausting opportunities for de-escalation, stressing that any future political process must end with the return of state institutions and the state having sole control over weapons and decisions of war and peace, rather than power-sharing with an armed group.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Al-Zouba said: “We have not abandoned peace, but rather the illusion of peace that leaves weapons outside the state,” stressing that the goal of the current phase is to end the coup and extend state authority over the entire national territory. She added: “The Yemenis’ right to their state cannot remain suspended at the will of an armed group.”

The minister linked the restoration of the state to regional security and international maritime navigation, saying: “The security of Bab el-Mandeb begins on the coast, and protecting ships at sea will remain an incomplete solution as long as the land is a launching point for threats to it.”

The foreign minister praised Saudi political, military and economic support, while stressing that the success of the phase “will not be measured by the number of cities restored, but by the number of citizens who regain their security and families who return to their homes.”

Restoring the State as the Path to Peace

Al-Zouba explained that the decision to enter the phase of restoring the state was announced by President of the Presidential Leadership Council Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi, based on constitutional responsibility and in accordance with the decisions of the National Defense Council, after opportunities for de-escalation had been exhausted, with the aim of preserving Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independent decision-making and territorial integrity.

She recalled the president’s assertion that “Yemen’s Dawn” is not merely the name of a military operation, but a promise that the war will end with a state and that Yemenis will regain their republic and their future. She noted that behind the armed forces are political and societal forces rallying around the state project and supporting its institutions.

The minister said the state had given peace efforts their full time and opportunities, but the Houthis responded with further mobilization and escalation and expanded their attacks against civilians, national facilities, neighboring countries and international waterways.

She added that experience had demonstrated the fragility of de-escalation as long as the group is capable of rearming and imposing its will on society, stressing that “every settlement that leaves the state’s decision hostage to weapons postpones the war rather than ending it.”

Al-Zouba stressed that the force used by the state is a means of protecting citizens and enforcing the law, not a substitute for politics. As for diplomacy, she described it as “proactive rather than merely reactive,” explaining that it sets out the operation’s objectives and legitimacy, mobilizes support for it, accompanies the humanitarian response and prevents the Houthis from being treated as a parallel authority to the state.

International Support Awaits Practical Programs

The minister spoke of growing support for Yemeni state institutions and a broader recognition of the link between their ability to extend their authority and regional security and maritime safety. She said this was reflected in her communications and meetings on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly last month.

Alongside Saudi and Gulf support, the minister pointed to calls by members of the UN Security Council for practical cooperation with the government to prevent the Houthis from obtaining weapons, technical assistance, training and financing. She also noted London’s affirmation of Yemen’s and Saudi Arabia’s right to defend their security and sovereignty under international law, the European Union’s renewed support for the Yemeni government and people, and Japan’s continued efforts to build the capabilities of the coast guard.

But she stressed that “the real measure is the impact of these positions on the state’s ability to protect its citizens and restore its institutions,” identifying three priority tracks: strengthening defense and security capabilities on land and at sea, enforcing the arms embargo under Resolution 2216 to cut off Iranian supplies, and providing the government with economic, development and humanitarian support.

The foreign minister said strengthening maritime capabilities is based on the international partnership for Yemeni maritime security, coordination with the Saudi-led multinational defensive maritime coalition, and relevant existing frameworks. She revealed that the government will present detailed needs to its partners, looking to translate support into “practical programs with clear timelines.”

According to Al-Zouba, the Houthis have targeted more than 100 commercial vessels since November 2023, sinking several, damaging dozens of others, hijacking a vessel and detaining dozens of crew members. Their attacks have resulted in the deaths of sailors and Yemeni rescuers. She said countries bearing the cost of disrupted trade and higher shipping and insurance costs have a direct interest in enabling Yemen to secure its coastlines.

Washington: Declared Support and Ongoing Coordination

Al-Zouba described the declared US position as clearly standing with the Yemeni government, noting Washington’s assertion that the Houthis initiated the confrontation and must bear its consequences, and that the legitimate government has the right to defend its people and end the group’s ability to engage in terrorism.

She said Washington called at the UN Security Council for the Houthis to withdraw from areas they had seized, end Iranian support and fully implement the arms embargo. She also noted that the US assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs renewed, during their meeting in New York, his support for the government and the Presidential Leadership Council, as well as continued coordination on security, stability and counterterrorism.

She quoted US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as saying that the operations came in response to the Houthi attack and to retake territory they had seized, and that the Yemeni government and Saudi Arabia would not accept the group controlling Bab el-Mandeb. She declined to discuss specific military or intelligence commitments, saying: “I am committed, when discussing them, to what is officially announced through the relevant channels.”

The minister confirmed that the government is working with Washington on tangible cooperation proportionate to the threat: “We are not asking anyone to take its place, but rather to enable it to carry out its duty by strengthening the capabilities of its institutions and supporting its economic stability.”

She warned against selective Houthi assurances that they would not target ships belonging to certain countries, saying such assurances leave the group capable of attacking others, give it time to rearm and consolidate its control over the coast. She said: “Freedom of navigation is a right guaranteed by international law to all states, not a privilege granted by an armed group and withheld according to its terrorist agenda and in a manner that serves the Iranian regime.”

Iranian Supplies and Accountability

Al-Zouba said the evidence the government presents to its partners regarding Iranian support consists of “documented evidence, not political assessments.” She described the relationship as an extended military and strategic one that predates the coup, citing the seizure of the vessel Jihan 1 in an arms-smuggling case announced by the government in early 2013.

She referred to the findings of the UN Panel of Experts regarding the role of the Quds Force, Hezbollah, and Iraqi experts and technicians in transferring equipment and providing training and assistance to the Houthis, and said the group could not develop complex systems without external support.

She added that Yemeni forces seized, in a single operation last year, more than 750 tons of weapons and equipment bound for the Houthis, including anti-ship and anti-aircraft missiles, drone engines and radar equipment. Some of the equipment displayed characteristics similar to systems manufactured in Iran, and Persian-language operating manuals were found with it.

Al-Zouba cited remarks by the commander of the Quds Force in June about a “security belt” extending from Hormuz to Bab el-Mandeb, considering the linking of the two waterways a compounded threat to energy and trade security. She also cited Rubio’s reference to direct flights from Tehran to Yemen carrying members of the Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Nevertheless, the foreign minister stressed that the Yemeni issue should not be reduced to the confrontation with Iran, because the Houthis have their own project and interests in retaining power, weapons and resources, and their threat will not automatically end with any de-escalation with Tehran. She noted arrangements that the Panel of Experts said it had documented with Somalia’s al-Shabaab movement involving arms smuggling and training, and with al-Qaeda involving security coordination and the continuation of a cessation of hostilities between them.

She stressed: “We distinguish between documenting the support system and proving direct management of a particular attack. Each has its own evidence.” She called for suppliers, intermediaries and financiers to be pursued, procurement, transport and smuggling networks to be dismantled, the transfer of military technologies and expertise to be halted, and information-sharing and accountability for violations of the arms embargo to be strengthened.

The Day After: Institutions and Services Without Retribution

The minister outlined the government’s vision for restored areas as one centered on the return of security, civilian administration, services and the rule of law. She explained that the president had directed the preparation of a parallel plan for the operations under which institutions would begin operating in every city and district that is restored.

Priorities include resuming the payment of salaries and addressing outstanding dues, an urgent recovery and reconstruction program covering roads, electricity and water, facilitating the return of displaced people and reviving the economy, with support from brothers and friends.

Al-Zouba stressed that protecting civilians, respecting international humanitarian law and facilitating aid are obligations during and after the operations, saying: “This is not a war against the people of Sanaa or Saada or any governorate, nor against a sect or tribe.”

She stressed the state’s responsibility toward citizens in areas under Houthi control, saying that “there is no place for revenge or collective punishment, and the door to amnesty and safe return remains open in accordance with the announced procedures.”

The minister kept the political track open for a just and comprehensive peace based on the approved references, constitutional legitimacy and equal citizenship. But she stressed that its essence is “ending the coup and restoring institutions, not sharing power with weapons,” and that participation is a right for anyone who complies with the constitution and the law.

Saudi Support and the Partnership to Restore the State

Al-Zouba described coordination with Saudi Arabia as close and continuous politically, militarily, developmentally and in relief efforts, governed by a strategic partnership and a single objective: ending the coup and restoring the state. She praised the Saudi Council of Ministers for renewing, at its latest session, its full support for the Presidential Leadership Council, the government and the Yemeni people.

She said Saudi support had contributed to the resilience of state institutions, strengthened national consensus and cohesion, and that budget support, fuel supplies for power plants, and humanitarian and development assistance all help the government meet its obligations and alleviate citizens’ suffering.

On the ground, the foreign minister explained that the Coalition to Support Legitimacy has provided air and operational support since the launch of “Yemen’s Dawn,” and confirmed that this support would continue until the restoration of the institutions. She noted that the advances by forces along the western coast, around Bab el-Mandeb and on other fronts were the result of their sacrifices and cohesion and of the national will, alongside “this influential support.”

She renewed solidarity with Saudi Arabia in confronting Houthi attacks, which she said had reached the point of threatening holy sites, and expressed support for its right to protect its security and sovereignty. She welcomed the “Mecca Defense Alliance” moving toward the practical implementation of its collective defense commitments. She stressed that the Houthis do not represent the Republic of Yemen or the will of its people, and that restoring the state is a pillar of security for Yemen and its neighbors.

Aden Airport: An Attack on the Lives of Yemenis

Al-Zouba described the targeting of Aden International Airport as a “terrorist attack targeting a civilian facility serving Yemenis from different governorates,” striking at their right to travel, receive medical treatment and return to their families.

She said, based on the announcement by the relevant authorities, that one of the two missiles fell near the runway minutes before a flight arriving from Cairo was due to land and was forced to divert to Jeddah, while passengers, workers and air crews were within the danger zone. She added that the move to protect lives does not lessen the gravity of an attack “that could have turned a civilian flight into a humanitarian catastrophe within moments.”

The minister linked the attack to the shelling of the airport when the government arrived in late 2020, which resulted in more than 100 people killed and wounded, the detention of four Yemenia aircraft in 2024, and the disruption of the return of more than 1,000 pilgrims, in addition to attacks on the airports of Jazan and Najran and threats to aircraft transiting Saudi airspace.

She considered the timing of the attack an attempt to shift the confrontation from the battlefield to the lives and services of citizens, calling for measures beyond condemnation, including holding those who planned and carried out the attack accountable, depriving the Houthis of missiles and drones, and preventing the use of civilian flights as cover for military support.

She said the government welcomed the Jordanian initiative to operate flights between Amman and Sanaa to serve citizens and patients, while the Houthis rejected it and sought to operate flights not coordinated with the state. She called on the International Civil Aviation Organization to condemn the attack, assist in assessing risks and enhance safety, stressing: “Aden Airport will remain a civilian gateway for Yemenis, operating in accordance with safety requirements.”

Interviews

Al-Zindani to Asharq Al-Awsat: Yemen Will Not Remain an Open Arena for a Cross-border Project

The Prime Minister affirmed that Yemen would not remain an open arena for a cross-border project (Photography by Turky Alagili)
The Prime Minister affirmed that Yemen would not remain an open arena for a cross-border project (Photography by Turky Alagili)
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Al-Zindani to Asharq Al-Awsat: Yemen Will Not Remain an Open Arena for a Cross-border Project

The Prime Minister affirmed that Yemen would not remain an open arena for a cross-border project (Photography by Turky Alagili)
The Prime Minister affirmed that Yemen would not remain an open arena for a cross-border project (Photography by Turky Alagili)

Yemeni Prime Minister Dr. Shaya al-Zindani warned that his country would not remain an open arena for a cross-border project, stressing that the state would continue to build its capabilities to protect its people, institutions and interests, and that true peace cannot be a substitute for the state, but rather the fruit of its restoration.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Al-Zindani said that the recent Houthi escalation clearly reveals the group’s targeting of the foundations of life and the national economy, and its attempt to transform Yemeni lands, ports and sea lanes into tools that serve a regional project that transcends the country’s borders.

The Prime Minister stressed that the Yemeni-Saudi coordination goes beyond confronting an emergency military escalation, and is based on a firm strategic partnership between two countries that share neighborliness, security, destiny and common interests.

Houthi escalation targets the national economy

Al-Zindani said the recent escalation clearly reveals that the Houthi terrorist militias are not only targeting a military front or a specific facility, but are also targeting civilians, the foundations of life and the national economy, and are trying to turn Yemeni lands, ports and sea lanes into tools in a regional project that goes beyond the borders of Yemen.

He added that targeting the port of Mocha specifically represents a very dangerous development because it affects a civilian and economic facility and sends a threatening message to trade and navigation in one of the most important maritime corridors in the world, noting that the government dealt with this escalation as a simultaneous threat to national security, the Yemeni economy, and regional and international security.

Al-Zindani affirmed that the government is working to strengthen the emergency response system and secure supply chains (Prime Minister's Office)

The shift from containment to deterrence

Regarding the shift from containment to deterrence, the Prime Minister explained that the government is facing a militia that has proven, over the past years, that it exploits any truce to rebuild its capabilities, and then returns to escalation whenever the opportunity arises.

He said that the government’s mission today is to enable state institutions, the armed forces and security services to protect citizens, facilities and national interests, and to work with the military and security leadership to raise readiness, enhance deterrence capabilities and restore state authority.

He stressed that deterrence, from the government’s point of view, is not just a military action, but an integrated system that includes military and security readiness, protecting facilities, securing ports and border crossings, pursuing financing and smuggling networks, in addition to political and diplomatic action and mobilizing international support.

Al-Zindani pointed out that the National Defense Council had already directed that readiness be maintained at its highest levels, that the protection of vital facilities be strengthened, and that deterrence tools be expanded in the face of sources of threat.

He added: “We are not looking for a war for the sake of war, nor do we want to expand the circle of Yemeni suffering, but at the same time the state and government will not accept that facilities, ports, cities and civilian objects become open targets without having the ability and will to protect them.”

“We say to everyone, inside and outside, that sustainable peace cannot be built in Yemen unless the state has the power to make decisions, possess sovereignty, and control weapons.”

Al-Zindani pointed out that the National Defense Council had already directed that readiness be maintained at its highest levels (Saba)

Measures to protect infrastructure

Al-Zindani explained that his government views the protection of facilities as a matter of national security, not merely a precautionary measure. He indicated that, in light of the recent escalation, it has raised the level of preparedness in vital institutions and facilities, particularly ports, border crossings, and the transportation, energy, communications, and basic services sectors, and has developed contingency plans to address various potential scenarios.

He added that, during the past few days, he directed that the level of preparedness be raised in transport facilities, ports and border crossings, and that their ability to continue performing their functions in emergency circumstances be ensured.

The Prime Minister indicated that the government is working through two parallel tracks; the first relates to the direct protection of facilities and raising the level of coordination between military and security agencies and civilian authorities, while the other focuses on ensuring the continuity of services and economic activity in the event that any facility is subjected to an attack.

He explained that the importance of this is due to the fact that the Houthis’ goal is not limited to causing material damage, but also includes creating a state of fear, disrupting economic activity, and confusing the movement of citizens and trade, stressing that the best response to this type of terrorism is to maintain the work of state institutions.

He pointed out that the government is also working to strengthen the emergency response system, secure supply chains and stocks of basic goods, and coordinate with local authorities and relevant bodies to ensure a swift response to any potential damage.

Regarding the port of Mocha, Al-Zindani said that the government does not treat it as merely a local facility, but rather as part of a broader economic and maritime system, noting that targeting it would have repercussions that extend beyond national borders.

He added that protecting ports and economic facilities is a national responsibility, and at the same time it is part of the international community’s responsibility towards the security of navigation and international trade.

He stressed that the message the government wants to convey is that it will not allow the Houthi militias and their supporters in the Iranian regime to turn civilian and economic facilities into hostages to blackmail the state or the international community.

Stability in liberated areas

The Prime Minister described maintaining stability in the liberated areas as "the government's main battle," explaining that the Houthi militias are not only relying on missiles and drones, but also on exhausting the citizen, disrupting the economy, disabling services, and weakening confidence in the state.

He stressed that protecting economic and social stability is no less important than protecting the front lines, noting that the government program is based on interconnected paths that include developing revenues, controlling spending, strengthening oversight of public funds, combating corruption and smuggling, improving resource management, supporting the banking sector, maintaining currency stability, and continuing to improve electricity and basic services.

He added that the government is working to build greater resilience in the face of shocks, by securing basic needs, improving inventory management, diversifying supply routes, and raising the readiness of service institutions.

Al-Zindani said that the government has taken steps in the path of institutional and financial reform, but it does not claim that the results have yet reached the level that the citizen aspires to.

“We are working in extremely difficult circumstances, but the difficulty of the circumstances does not absolve the government of its responsibilities,” he added.

He stressed that the best way to thwart the Houthis’ bet on exhausting the liberated areas is to make state institutions more efficient, the economy more resilient, services more regular, and citizens more confident in their state.

The Yemeni Prime Minister affirmed that Saudi Arabia has been and continues to be a key partner for Yemen (Prime Minister's Office)

Yemeni-Saudi coordination

Al-Zindani stressed that Yemeni-Saudi coordination is based on a deeper foundation than just a situational response to military escalation, explaining that the two countries are united by a strategic partnership based on neighborliness, security, destiny and common interests.

He stressed that Saudi Arabia has been and remains a key partner for Yemen, and has not dealt with it as merely a political or security issue, but rather has proceeded from a vision that considers the stability of Yemen as part of the security of the Kingdom and the region, and sees that enabling the Yemeni state to restore its institutions, revive its economy and improve the conditions of its citizens is an investment in the security and stability of the entire region.

He explained that this coordination is constantly evolving and moving through political, diplomatic, security, military, economic and humanitarian tracks, noting that there is a high level of consultation between the leaderships of the two countries and their governments in dealing with emerging developments and risks.

“We highly appreciate the positions of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, towards Yemen, its leadership and people, and the continuous political, economic, humanitarian, military and security support they provide, as well as the role played by Prince Khalid bin Salman, Minister of Defense, in strengthening cooperation and coordination between the two countries,” he added.

The Yemeni Prime Minister cited as an example the support that goes beyond political, security and military aspects, noting that the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen has become a key partner in the path of recovery and development, through its projects in the electricity, energy, water, health, education, transportation and infrastructure sectors.

He explained that these projects not only aim to address immediate needs, but also help to rebuild the capabilities of state institutions and improve the economic and living conditions of citizens.

Al-Zindani also pointed to the humanitarian role played by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, as another example of Saudi commitment to the Yemeni people, through its relief and humanitarian programs and projects in various governorates.

Al-Zindani pointed to the humanitarian role played by the King Salman Center for Relief and Humanitarian Aid, as another example of Saudi commitment to the Yemeni people (Prime Minister's Office)

Regarding confronting the Houthi escalation, the Prime Minister stressed that there is a shared understanding of the nature of the threat, explaining that this escalation is no longer just an internal Yemeni issue; when the militias target ports, civilian facilities, and commercial ships and threaten international navigation, they are transferring the threat to the regional and international levels.

He called for a more resolute international stance, stressing that the security of the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab is not just a Yemeni or regional issue, but an international interest linked to trade, energy, and global supply chains.

Government needs

Regarding his government’s needs, Al-Zindani said they consist, firstly, of continued political and diplomatic support for the Yemeni position; secondly, of supporting the capabilities of the state and its military, security and economic institutions; thirdly, of supporting the government’s efforts to protect vital facilities and restore its ability to produce and export its resources; and fourthly, of adopting a clear international position that links any path to peace to ending the causes of the war, and not to managing the division.

He stressed that Yemen does not want the international community to fight the war on behalf of the Yemenis, but rather to help them end it and build a state capable of protecting itself, and to deal seriously with the sources of funding and arming of the militias and the smuggling networks that fuel their ability to continue the war.

He explained that the equation the government is working on is not limited to confronting and deterring escalation, but is based on “a state confronting a terrorist coup militia”; a state that possesses institutions, a sovereign decision, armed forces, security services, and a recoverable economy, in contrast to a project that wants to keep Yemen in a state of war and constant attrition, and it must be defeated.

Al-Zindani expressed his confidence that Saudi support, along with the support of the international community, will enhance the ability of the Yemeni government to protect the liberated areas and continue reforms, leading to the complete restoration of state authority over the entire national territory, and achieving peace that ends the coup and restores stability to Yemen and its natural role in its Arab and regional environment.

A message to the Houthis

The Prime Minister concluded with a message in which he said: “The Houthi militias and those who support them should realize that Yemen will not remain an open arena for a cross-border project, that the Yemeni state will continue to build its capabilities to protect its people, institutions and interests, and that true peace cannot be a substitute for the state, but rather a result of its return.”

Interviews

Spanish Ambassador to Asharq Al-Awsat: Saudi Arabia and Spain Enter New Era of Strategic Partnership

Spain's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Javier M. Carbajosa (Embassy of Spain in Riyadh)
Spain's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Javier M. Carbajosa (Embassy of Spain in Riyadh)
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Spanish Ambassador to Asharq Al-Awsat: Saudi Arabia and Spain Enter New Era of Strategic Partnership

Spain's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Javier M. Carbajosa (Embassy of Spain in Riyadh)
Spain's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Javier M. Carbajosa (Embassy of Spain in Riyadh)

Saudi-Spanish relations have entered a new phase of institutional cooperation following the signing of the Strategic Partnership Agreement in Madrid last May. The agreement established a permanent framework to expand economic, investment and technological cooperation while creating a high-level mechanism to oversee joint projects.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Spain's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Javier Carbajosa, revealed that two new Memorandums of Understanding in the fields of economy and transport have been finalized, alongside additional cooperation frameworks that remain under negotiation. He stressed that bilateral relations are moving toward a comprehensive strategic partnership aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia and Spain signed the Strategic Partnership Agreement on May 13 in Madrid and agreed to establish a Strategic Partnership Council to elevate bilateral relations and expand cooperation, particularly in promising economic and investment sectors. They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic and special passports.

On Tuesday, the Saudi Cabinet approved a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the future of modern transport methods between the Kingdom's Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services and Spain's Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility.

A New Framework for Bilateral Relations

Carbajosa said the agreement signed in Madrid marks a turning point in bilateral relations, establishing a new institutional framework for managing cooperation between the two countries.

"I am very pleased to share with you what I consider a milestone in our bilateral relations, and that is the signature last May in Madrid of the Strategic Partnership Agreement between our two countries, raising our diplomatic relations to its highest level.

From now onwards, both Prime Ministers will personally lead our bilateral relations."

He explained that under the new framework, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez will personally lead bilateral relations, helping accelerate the implementation of joint projects and strengthen political and economic coordination.

"Traditionally, cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Spain was driven by a Joint Commission, co-led by the Ministries of Economy from both countries and supported by various government sectors. This framework aimed to deepen bilateral ties through regular technical consultations and biennial high-level summits. Now, the new framework supersedes everything else and the Strategic Partnership will encompass all our activities in different sectors."

He added that Memorandums of Understanding in the fields of economy and transport have already been finalized, while negotiations continue on additional cooperation frameworks that will all fall under the umbrella of the new Strategic Partnership.

Growing Trade, Services Driving the Partnership

Carbajosa said bilateral trade between the two countries stands at approximately $6 billion annually, while Spanish exports to Saudi Arabia range between $2.4 billion and $2.6 billion, making Spain the fifth-largest European Union exporter to the Kingdom.

Spanish exports include industrial machinery, mechanical valves, ceramics, pharmaceuticals and agri-food products. Meanwhile, Spain imports roughly $3.5 billion annually from Saudi Arabia, mainly crude petroleum, refined oil and ethylene polymers.

He said Spanish imports from Saudi Arabia rose by 18 percent during the first quarter of this year, driven by higher crude oil prices linked to regional geopolitical tensions, while Spanish exports contracted during the same period.

"While long-term indicators point toward growth, the overall trade trajectory in 2026 remains dependent on the normalization of energy supply routes in the Gulf region."

Carbajosa noted that cooperation extends beyond trade in goods.

"While the trade in goods favors Riyadh, the exchange of services tells a different story. Driven by Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification, Spanish engineering, infrastructure, and transport firms have secured multi-billion-dollar contracts in the Kingdom.

From the flagship Haramein High-Speed Railway to massive urban transit and renewable energy grids, Spain heavily exports 'know-how' and technical services that do not always register in traditional customs ledger balances."

From Water and Energy to Smart Transport

The ambassador said cooperation also covers desalination and water resource management, drawing on Spain's world-class expertise in the design, construction and operation of large-scale reverse osmosis desalination plants, wastewater treatment facilities and circular water networks. Spanish companies have historically led major water and desalination projects across the Kingdom.

He added that cooperation also extends to urban development, infrastructure project management and the preparation of master plans for smart and sustainable cities, alongside upgrading power grids, substations and industrial complexes to strengthen energy security and support the integration of utility-scale renewable energy.

In the transport sector, Carbajosa said Spanish companies possess globally recognized expertise in designing, managing and operating complex transport networks. He cited the landmark Haramein High-Speed Railway, led by Spanish public-private consortia, alongside major infrastructure contributions to the Riyadh Metro project.

He also highlighted Spain's role in smart mobility, noting that Spanish companies will manage the intercity transportation network for the Qiddiya City giga-project through intelligent transport systems and traffic management solutions.

The Region's First Virtual Air Traffic Control Tower

Carbajosa said Saudi Arabia and Spain signed two Memorandums of Understanding in February 2026 covering civil aviation and future transportation modes, in the presence of Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh Al-Jasser and his Spanish counterpart, Óscar Puente.

"The agreements align with the Kingdom's Aviation Program goals: expanding connectivity to 250 international destinations, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub, and reaching 330 million annual passengers by 2030. Cooperation spans seven areas, including safety standards, route expansion, regulatory alignment, sustainable aviation, and joint R&D into autonomous aircraft and smart airport design."

He added that cooperation also extends to modernizing air navigation systems and airport infrastructure. A Spanish engineering firm has been selected to update the master plans for five Saudi airports, while another Spanish company has partnered with Saudi Air Navigation Services to deploy the region's first virtual air traffic control tower.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs José Manuel Albares Bueno during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding establishing the Strategic Partnership Council (X)

From Arms Procurement to Technology Transfer

Carbajosa said defense cooperation between the two countries has evolved beyond traditional arms procurement toward industrial partnerships built on technology transfer and the localization of defense industries.

He explained that the joint venture between Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) and Spain's Navantia to outfit five Avante 2200 corvettes has helped transfer technological know-how to the Kingdom and resulted in the development of the HAZEM naval combat management system through technology transfer from Navantia. He added that a follow-on agreement includes the transfer of intellectual property rights to the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), paving the way for future naval vessels to be built in Saudi Arabia.

He added that other Spanish companies, including Indra and Grupo Oesía, offer advanced capabilities in radar systems, electronic warfare and counter-drone technologies. Spain currently accounts for approximately 10 percent of Saudi arms imports, ranking second only to the United States.

According to Carbajosa, Spain's expertise in cybersecurity, command-and-control systems and dual-use technologies aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to localize more than 50 percent of military spending by 2030 through technology transfer, research and development, and workforce training.

Space Opens New Horizons for Partnership

Carbajosa said Saudi Arabia's space economy reached $8.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $31.6 billion by 2035.

He noted that Spain has an advanced industrial base in the space sector through companies such as Airbus Defence and Space Spain, Indra, GMV, Hisdesat and Sener, which provide solutions in secure satellite communications, Earth observation and geospatial analytics.

He said these companies are natural partners for the Kingdom's sovereign space infrastructure priorities, including secure satellite communications, Earth observation and geospatial analytics.

He concluded by emphasizing that Saudi-Spanish relations have evolved from implementing projects to building long-term strategic partnerships based on co-production and technology transfer, opening new horizons for cooperation in defense, aviation and space.