1 March 2026 | Interview by Abdullah Al-Masroori (Aden)
Yemen’s Minister of Human Rights, Meshdal Mohammed Omar, affirmed that recent Saudi support represents a fundamental pillar in enabling the government to restore economic sovereignty and protect citizens’ rights, noting that the Saudi Arabia remains a steadfast partner to Yemen in times of hardship and stability alike.
In his first press interview with Okaz Newspaper, the Minister stated that the Houthi movement continues to use political blackmail in the ملف of detainees and abductees, disregarding international standards. He highlighted that the ministry is developing a new strategy to transform monitoring reports into deterrent government policies.
He added that the ministry’s future vision focuses on digital transformation and empowering youth to ensure that citizens’ voices are heard.
Historic Support and a Pillar of Stability
The Minister described Saudi economic support as a “strategic lever” at a critical moment, contributing to economic stability, easing citizens’ suffering, and reinforcing the role of Saudi Arabia in supporting legitimacy and state restoration.
A Partnership of Shared Destiny
He explained that financial stability provided by Saudi Arabia enhances the government’s ability to meet core obligations, including salary payments and currency stabilization, creating conditions conducive to economic reform and strengthening state institutions.
Citizen-Centered Priorities
The Minister emphasized that his top priority is ensuring that every Yemeni feels protected and heard, transforming the ministry from a monitoring body into a “real shield” for rights protection through improved reporting mechanisms, transparency, and stronger international coordination.
Humanitarian Responsibility Toward Millions
On internally displaced persons (IDPs), he stressed that they are not merely statistics but a national and humanitarian priority. Efforts focus on accurate needs assessment, strict coordination with local authorities and humanitarian actors, and ensuring fair and transparent aid delivery, with the ultimate goal of safe and dignified return.
Detainees and Abductees: Ongoing Houthi Obstruction
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s position of “all-for-all” prisoner exchanges, noting continued obstruction by the Houthis through selective lists and political bargaining. He called on the international community to take serious action to break the deadlock and ensure the release of all detainees and forcibly disappeared persons.
Targeting Elites as Intellectual Repression
He expressed concern over campaigns targeting political and academic elites in Houthi-controlled areas, stating that the ministry documents such cases and works with international actors to ensure their release and protection.
Transparency with International Organizations
The Minister noted that cooperation with international organizations and UN expert bodies remains positive, emphasizing transparency and regular engagement to strengthen collaboration and present accurate realities on the ground.
Youth and Digital Transformation
Highlighting the role of youth, he stressed efforts to inject new talent into the ministry and adopt digital innovation in monitoring and documentation to improve efficiency, responsiveness, and transparency.
Saudi Programs and Rehabilitation Efforts
He pointed to strong cooperation with the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen and the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, particularly in rehabilitating children formerly involved in armed conflict, with successful centers in Marib and plans to expand to Aden and nearby governorates.
Currency Stability and the Right to a Dignified Life
The Minister emphasized that currency stability is central to economic rights, noting that Saudi support has helped reduce inflation and secure basic needs, thereby enhancing citizens’ ability to live with dignity.
Digital Transformation and Reporting Protection
He announced plans to launch a dedicated mobile application and hotline, allowing citizens to submit complaints confidentially from anywhere in Yemen, ensuring faster response and wider access.
Addressing criticism that human rights are secondary during economic hardship, he stressed that economic rights—such as food and salaries—are fundamental and central to the government’s agenda.
Social Justice
The Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting marginalized groups and IDPs without discrimination, promoting tolerance, and exploring legal frameworks to combat hate speech and protect social cohesion.
Strict Oversight of Detention Centers
He confirmed directives from Rashad Al-Alimi to close unofficial prisons, adding that the ministry will intensify oversight to ensure all detention centers comply with legal and human rights standards.
A Message to Citizens and the International Community
The Minister concluded:
“To our citizens: your dignity is our responsibility, and we will work tirelessly to protect your rights.
To the international community and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights: 2026 must be a year of supporting national, security, and judicial institutions, as they represent the first line of protection for people. We look forward to a genuine partnership to end the suffering of Yemenis and confront terrorism that has even targeted humanitarian workers.”
