Sana'a: Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates for International Cooperation, Ambassador Ismail al-Mutawakel, met with the Regional Director of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for the Near and Middle East, Nicola von Arx, and the President of the ICRC in Yemen, Christine Cipolla. The meeting focused on the humanitarian developments in Yemen, the ICRC's efforts in providing humanitarian and medical support, and enhancing coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the ICRC to ensure continued humanitarian and relief assistance.
According to Yemen News Agency, Undersecretary al-Mutawakel emphasized the Ministry's commitment to strengthening coordination with the ICRC. He highlighted the longstanding relationship between Yemen and the ICRC and the significance of the Regional Director's visit to support humanitarian, medical, human rights, and legal areas while enhancing cooperation mechanisms based on the ICRC's intervention priorities.
The Undersecretary also discussed Yemen's humanitarian position during Operation "al-Aqsa Flood," condemning the aggression against Palestinian civilians and urging the international community to intervene. He highlighted the humanitarian sacrifices made by the Yemeni people and criticized the neutrality of international organizations regarding recent crimes, including the attack on the Prime Minister of the Government of Change and Construction.
Ambassador al-Mutawakel commended the ICRC's vital role in Sa'ada governorate, particularly in providing humanitarian aid despite the suspension of support by UN and international organizations. He acknowledged the Red Cross's interventions in alleviating civilian suffering and emphasized the Ministry's readiness to ensure transparency in humanitarian efforts.
He also warned against the execution of prisoners by mercenaries, calling for condemnation of such violations to preserve prisoner rights and uphold international humanitarian law. Regional Director Nicolas von Arx expressed condolences for the targeted attack on the Prime Minister and reiterated the ICRC's commitment to humanitarian work and cooperation with local authorities in Yemen. He praised the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for facilitating the Committee's work in the country.