Hawzah News Agency- In an interview with a reporter from the Hawzah News Agency in Tehran, political analyst Seyed Hadi Seyed Afqahi pointed to Yemen's historical, religious, geographical, and strategic significance. He stated, "This country remains largely unknown to many, whether from the perspective of its history, religious status, political geography, or its economic and strategic capacities. Most importantly, the people of Yemen are noble, courageous, faithful, self-sacrificing, and patient."
Reviewing Yemen's history, he noted that prior to Islam, the Abyssinian Empire attempted to occupy this land but failed. Following the advent of Islam, the Ottoman Caliphate, despite sustaining heavy casualties, was unable to subdue Yemen. During the era of Gamal Abdel Nasser, Egypt also suffered massive losses in its war with Saudi Arabia over Yemen and was forced to retreat.
Seyed Afqahi added that even before the Islamic Awakening and Ansarullah's arrival in Sana'a, Saudi Arabia had attacked Yemen in six separate phases. In all these stages, whether during the time of the late Seyed Badruddin al-Houthi or the martyred Seyed Hussein al-Houthi, it faced defeat.
He noted that Yemen possesses approximately two thousand kilometers of maritime borders and is rich in minerals, oil, and gas. This prized location, he asserted, has historically attracted the covetous eyes of foreign powers.
Yemen: The Land of Faith and Resistance
Referring to Yemen's position in Islamic culture, the political analyst stated that in narrations, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) always expressed pride in Yemen. Today, this same nation stands against oppression, occupation, and plunder, playing a defining role in support of the Islamic Ummah.
He continued: "During Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, no one asked Yemen to intervene, yet Ansarullah entered the fray based on a divine duty. It closed the Red Sea to ships linked to the Zionist regime and targeted the port of Eilat, Ben Gurion Airport, and even Haifa with its missiles and drones."
Seyed Afqahi highlighted Yemen's remarkable performance even in confronting the United States, noting that Yemeni forces targeted two American aircraft carriers in their attacks.
Martyr Soleimani Connected Yemen to the Axis of Resistance
Pointing to the role of Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani in shaping the Axis of Resistance, he said, "Martyr Soleimani correctly understood the strategic importance of Yemen and maintained his connection with Ansarullah until the moment of his martyrdom."
The analyst added that through the strategic design of Martyr Soleimani, the Axis of Resistance encompassing Yemen, Iraq's Hashd al-Sha'bi, Palestine, and Lebanon took shape. Since that time, the Islamic Republic of Iran's relationship with Yemen has evolved into a deep, organized, and meaningful bond.
"When we speak of the Axis of Resistance today, Yemen holds a special status—a country that, due to its geopolitical position, resources, the faith of its people, and military capabilities, plays an effective role in the region's deterrence equations," he asserted.
Yemen Has Not Yet Deployed Its Full Capacities
Pointing to Yemen's capabilities, Seyed Afqahi stated that the country has not yet fully committed all its capacities to the field. Control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the ability to target Saudi and Emirati oil facilities, and the development of its missile and drone power are among Yemen's most critical strategic assets.
He recalled that just as Yemen managed to strike targets deep inside the occupied territories at a distance of two thousand kilometers, it also possesses the ability to hit the energy infrastructure of hostile states.
Siege for Siege
Referring to the memorandum of understanding signed between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, mediated by Oman, the analyst noted that Saudi Arabia failed to implement even a single clause of the agreement and, much like the United States, retreated from its commitments.
He added that following Saudi attacks on Sana'a International Airport and its bombing, the Yemenis declared that just as their airports were targeted, they would enforce the equation of "siege for siege" and "attack for attack."
Arab Rulers Have Sided with Iran's Enemies Since the Revolution
Criticizing the policies of regional Arab states, Seyed Afqahi stated that from the very first days of the Islamic Revolution's victory, almost all these countries aligned themselves with Saddam Hussein.
Recalling the statement by Imam Khomeini (RA) that after the imposed war, it would be the turn of the Arab states, he said that exactly this scenario unfolded. Saddam attacked Kuwait, ultimately leading to the entrenchment of a massive American presence in the region.
American Bases in the Region Are Legitimate Targets
Regarding the role of Arab countries in recent American attacks against Iran, he said bases like Al Udeid and Ali Al Salem, while situated on the soil of regional states, are practically considered American bases.
Seyed Afqahi stressed: "We have repeatedly warned these countries not to allow their territory to be used against Iran. However, today one can see with the naked eye that missiles are being launched from these bases towards Iran."
He added that these nations have not only permitted the use of their soil but are themselves complicit in the attacks against Iran.
Iran's Reciprocal Response Has Not Yet Begun
The political analyst made clear that despite these actions, the Islamic Republic has not yet targeted the palaces of Arab rulers, their infrastructure, economic centers, hospitals, or urban centers.
He continued: "While they collaborated with America in the attack on the residence of the Supreme Leader, and the martyrdom of him and his family members, Iran has still refrained from targeting their infrastructure."
Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters' Statement Carried a Clear Message
In conclusion, Seyed Afqahi referred to the recent statement by the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, noting that its message was clear: If the enemies continue to attack Iran's infrastructure, the Islamic Republic will reciprocate by targeting theirs.
Referencing the message of Ayatollah Seyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, he highlighted the emphasis on correctly studying history, closely following developments, and standing on the right side of history. This is the very strategy upon which the Resistance Front will continue its path.
Your Comment