Aden Gov. Naif Al-Bakri said that Iranian fighters have been caught among the Houthi militias currently in control of large parts of Yemen.
The latest revelation by the governor would, however, if true be the first time direct proof has been uncovered of an Iranian presence among Houthis ranks in Yemen.
Naif Al-Bakri told Asharq Al-Awsat forces loyal to President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi “have taken hostage a number of Iranians and fighters from other nationalities” following their recent victories in the Aden, Lahj, and Abyan provinces.
Al-Bakri added that “among the hostages and those killed are several specialists, fighters, and military cadres” from different nationalities including Iran and that the hostages were currently being questioned.
Recent reports from Aden and elsewhere in the country have suggested the presence of Iranian fighters among the Houthis, with fighters from the Popular Resistance telling Asharq Al-Awsat in recent weeks they had found Iranian-marked weapons and supplies in Houthi positions vacated by the group.
Several sources have also told Asharq Al-Awsat in recent months that Iranian operatives including military experts have been present in Sanaa.
Agencies
