News - Yemen: In collaboration with the Ministry of Guidance and Hajj and Umrah Affairs, the Ministry of Transport held a press conference to address the ongoing restrictions on Yemen's airports and the issues concerning the non-return of Yemeni pilgrims.

Minister of Transport Abdulwahab Al-Durra accused the US-Saudi aggression of using Yemen Airways for political blackmail, effectively besieging the Yemeni people. He revealed that the airline's management in Aden has shut down all booking and sales systems within Yemen, redirecting operations to foreign countries.

Al-Durra highlighted that the coalition of aggression has disrupted Yemen Airways' official bank accounts and misappropriated its funds through dubious deals for purchasing used aircraft without proper legal procedures. He also criticized the Aden management for monopolizing and discriminating against Yemeni citizens in travel ticket pricing. Furthermore, he noted that the US-Saudi coalition has failed to honor the truce agreement made over two years ago, which included the opening of six destinations, including Jordan, Egypt, and India.

The Minister called for the restructuring of Yemen Airways' management, emphasizing the need for integrity and competence among its employees and leaders. He stressed that the airline should serve as a national carrier for all Yemenis. He pointed out that the main headquarters in Sana'a continues to pay the salaries of pilots, flight attendants, and employees monthly, expressing surprise at the Aden management's decisions.

The Ministry of Guidance and Hajj Affairs also demanded the lifting of restrictions on all ports and the reopening of the electronic registration pathway for pilgrims from Sana'a. Yemen Airways was urged to refund the ticket fees for pilgrims unable to return via the airline.

Minister of Guidance and Hajj Affairs Najeeb Al-Ajji held the Saudi regime responsible for the detention of Yemeni pilgrims, demanding their safe return to Sana'a and appropriate compensation.

Yemeni pilgrims face a complex situation as Saudi authorities have changed the return flight path of Yemenia Airways from Sana'a International Airport to Aden Airport. The pilgrims refused this change due to the additional costs and security risks associated with traveling through Aden Airport, which is controlled by UAE-backed forces with a notorious record of human rights violations, including the detention and abuse of travelers. Additionally, these forces have a history of "robbing and killing travelers returning to northern Yemeni provinces."