Tim Lenderking, the US special envoy to Yemen, said peace in the country will not be possible without the participation of Gulf countries.
In an interview with The National, Mr Lenderking also emphasized that a diplomatic solution must be found to Yemen's decade-old conflict, which has pitted the internationally recognized central government against the Iran-backed Houthis.
Mr Lenderking also highlighted the US's commitment to facilitating and supporting the peace process, calling for regional co-operation to advance peace efforts.
The U.S. diplomat travelled to the Middle East several times since appointed as the first United States special envoy for Yemen on February 4, 2021. He meet Yemeni, Saudi and Omani officials supporting the UN-mediated peace efforts and truce in Yemen.
Earlier this month, the UN special envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg warned the peace process is at risk of becoming “collateral damage” amid wider regional conflict, criticizing the Houthis for their attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea.
The attacks have prompted retaliatory strikes by the US and Britain since February, which Mr Lenderking stressed are focused on neutralizing the threat to maritime security posed by the Houthis.
Mr Lenderking highlighted the lack of public support for the Houthis within Yemen, citing their lack of popularity and “oppressive” governance.
He urged a return to dialogue and peace efforts.
“At the end of the day, the United States wants to return, move away from attacks in the Red Sea to de-escalation, and keep the focus on peace.”