In a message posted on his X account on Friday, Aref said Iran is pleased with the victories of the Yemeni nation, stressing the need for regional unity and independence.
“We are pleased with the victories of the heroic people of Yemen. Our message, as in the past, to the rulers of the region is an invitation to rationality, liberation from dependency, and unity under the banner of Islam,” the vice president wrote.
“The formation of a powerful Islamic economic and political bloc, while observing the requirements of neighborhood and regional cohesion, guarantees the interests of the Islamic Ummah,” Aref added.
His comments came after Ansarullah forces expanded their control along Yemen’s western coastline, capturing key areas including the port city of Al-Mokha and the strategic Mayyun Island in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The advances reportedly brought the Yemeni forces into control of the maritime passage linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
The developments have heightened regional tensions, with Saudi Arabia carrying out airstrikes on positions in several Yemeni provinces, including an attack on Al-Mokha Airport. The latest escalation followed a series of battlefield advances by Sana’a forces and the withdrawal of Saudi-affiliated mercenaries from several positions along the western coast.
The strategic significance of the developments has also drawn international attention. According to reports, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman contacted US President Donald Trump and requested US action against Ansarullah, but Trump reportedly rejected the request, while US officials said Washington had no plans for direct military intervention in Yemen.