Yemeni Opposition Figure Blames US, Saudi Arabia for Stalemate in Yemen

TEHRAN (FNA)- A prominent Yemeni revolutionary figure took Washington and Riyadh responsible for the current stalemate in Yemen, stressing that the US and Saudi Arabia have blocked the path of the Yemeni revolutionary forces to victory.
"Saudi Arabia and the US are the main reason why the Yemeni revolution has prolonged and been unable to yield its results yet," Ali al-Saqqaf, a senior member of Shabab al-Sammoud, a coalition of young revolutionary groups, told FNA on Wednesday.

"Saudi Arabia is totally against the victory and triumph of the Arab revolutions unless these revolutions serve the interests of Riyadh and its American and western masters. That is why they are providing a safe haven for ousted dictators and leaders," Saqqaf added.

"Riyadh seeks its survival in a troubled and destroyed Yemen," he stated, and stressed that Yemen's revolution will continue its peaceful move towards final victory.

Meantime the Yemeni opposition said Tuesday it will elect an umbrella "national council" aiming to take over power.

The parliamentary Common Forum opposition set August 17 for a meeting to establish the (proposed) national assembly, which will form an umbrella for the revolution and choose members of a national council.

The council aims to "lead the revolution forces to move ahead with change that will fulfill the aspirations of the Yemeni people."

The opposition has been discussing the proposed council for months. It hopes to unite the parties of the Common forum, which include the influential Islamist Al-Islah (reform) party, along with young protesters who have led anti-regime protests since January.

It will also include representatives of civil society, members of the secessionist Southern Movement and the Northern Shiite Huthi movement, in addition to independent activists.