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Houthis Apologize for “Death to America” Slogans | ASHARQ AL-AWSAT English Archive 2005 -2017
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Caption: The Shia rebel group stormed the presidential palace and key government buildings on January 22 [Reuters]


Riyadh – Houthi delegation in Kuwait head by Mohammed Abdulsalam were sorry for using “Death to America” slogan, according to Yemeni source.

Sources told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper that Abdulsalam and the delegation offered their apologies to Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs at the United States Department of State Thomas Shannon during their meeting in Kuwait.

The delegation explained that the slogan is used locally only and they tried to convince him that their apologies are sincere. Houthis added that they never did and never will target any American interests.

Member of Government’s Advisory Delegation General Askar Zoeil said that Houthis are worried after their meeting with the American. He added that Hamzah al-Houthi apologized to the U.S. Ambassador.

According to Zoeil, Hamzah Houthi informed the Under Secretary and U.S. Ambassador that they are willing to surrender their weapons as a “friendship token” for their new friends.

Houthi delegation member Naser Bakzkooz was quoted saying: “Who are we to threaten the U.S.”

He added that Hamzah explained to American officials that responding quickly to the agreement of Zahran shows their good intention and faith, adding that Salih is the one breaking the cease-fire.

Zoeil also mentioned that Mohammed Abdulsalam offered canceling “Death to America” slogan in return of Arab Coalition not entering Sanaa.

Revealing Houthi’s apology to the U.S. shows the bogus allegations and slogans that Houthis use to misguide thousands of Yemeni people who were fooled by the saying thinking they are fighting the “biggest devil the U.S.”

Political activist and author Hamdan al-Ali said that the apology is perfectly normal. He added: “It is normal for this step to happen. Since the beginning, the slogan was used locally and Houthis never really applied it. They use it to convince the simple people of certain ideas against U.S. policies in Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan.”

Alii stressed that upon entering Sanaa, Houthis were keen on the safety and protection of U.S. diplomats.

He added: “It is noticeable that unlike previous meetings with other ambassadors and delegates, Houthis didn’t publish the details of their meeting with the Under Secretary and U.S. Ambassador. They don’t want this truth revealed to the civilians inside of Yemen.”

The activist expected Houthis to continue using the slogan among their supporters.