US ambassador: Houthis are not our enemy

The US ambassador to Yemen, Gerald Feierstein, said on Wednesday that the Houthi Movement's anti-American slogans are ridiculous and silly, asserting that Washington is not their enemy. In a press conference held on Wednesday, the American diplomat said: "if the goal of carrying such slogans is to rally support from the public in some areas then that would not help the people of that area, nor will it serve the Houthis." The Shia Houthi tribe has made critical statements against the United States in the past, such as 'Death to America' during protests and public meetings.  Asked about the American position regarding the Shia movement, Feierstein replied that the US position has not changed from being pro-dialogue, welcoming the Houthis recent indications that they would take part in the upcoming national dialogue. Feierstein ssaid he was concerned over the Houthis' drive to achieve their demands by force and said he believes it would be more productive if the Houthis brought their grievances to the dialogue table. "We are against any movement - whether it is a Shia movement or any other organisation - that tries to realise its aims by militancy or force," said the diplomat. Feierstein further expressed his country's concerns about some reports indicating that the pro-Iranian movement is carrying out and supporting Iran's agenda in Yemen, stressing that Iran does not seek Yemen's best interest.  Speaking about Tehran's drive to establish a good relationship with other militant groups, who are also calling for the independence of the south, he said that Iran is only fueling instability in the country.