Gulf states rejects Houthis' takeover in Yemen

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) rejected on Saturday Houthis' takeover in Yemen and warned of steps to protect its members' interests, according to local newspapers.

In a meeting in Riyagh, the GCC said the Gulf nations will continue to stand with the Yemenis, and criticized that the Shiite Houthi group's latest move, which was denounced by the six-nation bloc as a coup, would end the peaceful political process in Yemen.

"This Houthi coup is a dangerous escalation which we reject and is unacceptable. It totally contradicts the spirit of pluralism and coexistence which Yemen has known," the GCC said.

The GCC warned that the latest developments will lead to more violence and bloodshed in Yemen, and called upon international community to take responsibility by denouncing it, especially the UN Security Council.

On Friday, the Houthi group announced it is taking over the government and dissolving parliament in Yemen.

It also formed a five-member presidential council to exercise the power of the presidency, a move further deepens the chaos after Yemen's president and premier submitted resignation last month.

Moreover, a transition national council comprised of 551 members will also be set up to replace the parliament, which is currently under control of former President Ali Abdullah Saleh.

Government sources said the Houthi's declaration is unilateral without reaching a consensus with other political parties.

However, some senior officials including the defense minister and interior minister of the outgoing government were seen attending the meeting held in the Republican Palace in Sanaa. Endit