Yemenis won’t allow foreign meddling

Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast says Yemeni people will determine their own destiny and not allow any foreign encroachment of their sovereignty.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran believes that the Yemeni people will build on their political maturity and not allow foreign parties to get involved [in Yemen] to take advantage [of the unrest] and make decisions on behalf of the Yemeni people,” said a press release issued by Mehmanparast on Monday.

The Iranian foreign ministry spokesman also added, “The people of Yemen have over the recent months undergone much hardship” in pressing their demands for reform in the Middle Eastern country.

In his comments on the latest developments in Yemen, Mehmanparast expressed certainty that Yemenis will remain vigilant in pursuing their “rightful demands” and not become sidetracked on their way.

Forces loyal to embattled Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh have killed hundreds of anti-government protesters and wounded many more since the beginning of anti-regime demonstrations in late January.

Saleh, who was allegedly wounded in an attack on his presidential compound on Friday, left the country for Saudi Arabia on Saturday for medical treatment.

Yemeni Vice President Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi took over Saleh’s responsibilities as president following his departure, as required by the constitution.