IRGC Quds Force Commander Brigadier General Esmaeil Qaani called on Saudi Arabia to end its long-running blockade on Yemen. He said lifting the restrictions would improve humanitarian conditions and contribute to greater regional stability. His remarks came in a statement released on Saturday as Middle East tensions continue influencing regional diplomacy.
Qaani urged Saudi leaders to reconsider their approach toward Yemen and learn from recent regional developments. Furthermore, he said governments should adopt policies that reduce conflict instead of increasing humanitarian hardship. He argued that continued dialogue offers the best path toward lasting regional security.
The senior Iranian commander described the blockade as a serious challenge for Yemen’s civilian population. He said millions continue facing difficult living conditions because restrictions have limited access to essential goods and services. Therefore, he called for immediate steps to improve humanitarian conditions across the country.
Qaani also urged Saudi Arabia to focus its political influence on broader regional issues. He said the country’s role as Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques carries important responsibilities across the Muslim world. Moreover, he encouraged stronger support for the Palestinian people during the continuing conflict in Gaza.
The conflict in Yemen began in 2015 when a Saudi-led coalition launched military operations against the Houthi movement. Since then, the war has developed into one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. Millions of Yemenis have required humanitarian assistance, while infrastructure, healthcare, and economic activity have suffered significant damage.
International organizations continue calling for greater humanitarian access and renewed political negotiations. Several ceasefire efforts have reduced violence temporarily, although lasting agreements remain difficult to achieve. Consequently, diplomatic initiatives continue attracting international attention.
Looking ahead, regional and international observers will closely monitor developments surrounding Yemen and broader Middle East diplomacy. Future negotiations and humanitarian initiatives could help reduce tensions, improve civilian conditions, and encourage a lasting political solution to the conflict.