RIYADH: The government of Gambia is seriously concerned with the protracted war in Yemen, particularly the activities of the Houthi militia and its proxies who continue to wage terror in Yemen and Saudi Arabia, destabilizing the region.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Gambia, “these acts of terrorism by the Houthi militia pose serious threats to the civilian population in both countries as well as the vital infrastructure in the Kingdom, thereby disrupting supplies in the global energy market.

“The government of Gambia, in support of all the peace efforts of Saudi Arabia, welcomed the Gulf Cooperation Council initiatives that convened a Yemen dialogue which led to the formation of a National Unity Government as a peaceful resolution of this conflict.”

As a further boost to the initiative, the UN special envoy to Yemen brokered a ceasefire on April 2 to end hostilities. The Houthi militia are, however, still more than determined to undermine these meaningful diplomatic efforts.

“The government of Gambia, therefore, in vehement condemnation of this negative response by the Houthi militia, calls upon the international community to condemn their reluctance for a second time since Aug. 2 to extend the ceasefire and calls upon the Houthis to renew the truce, which is an opportunity for peace in Yemen.”

The Gambian government also continues to stand by and commend Saudi Arabia in its legitimate struggle to usher in durable peace and legitimacy in Yemen that would guarantee stability in the region.

The UN-brokered truce, which expired on Oct. 2, had not been extended by the Iran-backed Houthi militia. The last six months have seen the longest sustained period with minimal fighting in Yemen for eight years, resulting in a significant drop in civilian deaths.

During the truce, which came into effect on April 2 and was twice renewed, thousands of people have been able to fly from Sanaa airport, and more than 50 fuel ships have entered the port of Hodeidah, ending severe fuel shortages in Houthi-controlled areas.