Conversation between Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot and Afrah Al-Zouba, Yemen’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates (November 3, 2026)

Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot hosted Yemen’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Afrah Al-Zouba, on November 3.

As the Houthis continue to step up their military offensive, the Minister strongly condemned the destabilizing actions and attacks carried out by that organization, particularly the attacks on the presidential palace in Aden on October 15 and 20, which represent a threat to Yemeni and regional security and stability. He expressed France’s full support for Yemen’s legitimate government, whose sovereignty must extend to the entire country.

The Ministers discussed the very serious consequences of the Houthi attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the siege of the city of Taiz – a flagrant violation of international law. He emphasized France’s unwavering support for the Yemeni population through the delivery of humanitarian aid and cooperation with the country’s legitimate authorities. 

Lastly, the Minister stressed the importance of restarting, in due time, an inclusive political process under the auspices of the UN, the only way to achieve a lasting solution to the conflict.