AbuDhabi -- The U.S. State Department announced Thursday that Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone call with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during which they discussed the importance of reinforcing stability in Yemen as part of regional and international efforts to counter the activities of the Iran-backed Houthi movement.

According to the State Department statement, both sides emphasized that Yemen’s stability is vital for regional security, stressing the need for continued coordination among regional and international partners to support de-escalation, prevent renewed conflict, and advance sustainable political solutions to the Yemeni crisis.

The statement added that the conversation also focused on protecting civilians and ensuring humanitarian access, while supporting the internationally recognized Yemeni government in restoring state institutions and asserting sovereignty across the country.