US vice president: Direct talks held with Houthis, Red Sea developments monitored

US Vice President JD Vance confirmed that the US administration has held direct talks with the Houthi group, as Washington continues to monitor developments in the Red Sea and their implications for American interests and maritime security.

Responding to a question about the situation in the Red Sea, Vance said: "We have communication with the Houthis and are concerned about maritime security in the Red Sea," adding, "We have conducted direct talks with the Houthi group and are monitoring developments to safeguard our interests."

Vance noted that the US administration is following the situation closely, stating: "The US administration is monitoring the situation carefully, and we feel we are keeping pace with its developments."

He added: "The situation is rapidly changing, and we will continue to monitor it and ensure the best protection of American interests."

Vance's remarks come after US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that the Houthis had reached out to Washington, asking it not to intervene in the escalating conflict in Yemen, saying: "They do not want us to attack them."

During a visit to Ireland, Trump revealed that there had been direct contact with the Houthis, saying: "We have had discussions... The Houthis contacted us and they do not want to fight us," adding, "They do not want us to attack them."

Trump also said, "Everything will go well and wonderfully" in the region, explaining that the group informed Washington they do not want to be pursued by the United States.