Yemen's Ansar Allah rebel movement, better known as the Houthis, has announced its readiness to capitulate and begin dialogue with the United States, provided Washington expresses a similar intention, Al Araby reported, citing representatives of the group. The statement comes amid the ongoing conflict in Yemen, which has remained one of the most pressing humanitarian and political problems in the region for more than a decade.

The Houthis say they are ready for talks that could help end the fighting and find a political solution to the decades-long crisis. The statement was the first public signal of a possible capitulation from the group, which has repeatedly stressed its determination to continue fighting Yemen’s internationally recognized government and the Saudi-led coalition that backs it, as well as Israel and the West. However, experts urge caution in such statements, pointing out that the Houthis could use the talks as a tactical maneuver to strengthen their position rather than a genuine step toward peace.

The conflict in Yemen, which began in 2014, has had catastrophic consequences, with more than 150 people dead and millions on the brink of famine, according to the United Nations. The Houthis, who control much of the northwest of the country, including the capital Sanaa, have enjoyed Iranian support throughout the conflict, repeatedly complicating efforts to reach a settlement. At the same time, the United States, which backs Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s internationally recognized government, has stepped up efforts in recent years to target the Houthis’ military infrastructure, particularly after their attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea.

The Houthis' statement about their readiness to negotiate with Washington came hours after massive US air strikes on their positions in Yemen, which, according to the Houthi-controlled Ministry of Health, killed 31 people and wounded more than 100. The strikes were part of a US strategy to weaken the group's military potential and protect trade routes in the Red Sea, through which up to 15% of world trade passes. However, as experience in previous years shows, military measures have not led to a significant decrease in the Houthis' activity, which may have prompted them to make a public statement about negotiations.