Iran-backed Houthi militants have “prioritized” a major military offensive while ignoring a U.S. ceasefire proposal, even as President Biden pressures Saudi Arabia to curtail military operations in the civil war.

“Tragically, and somewhat confusingly for me, it appears that the Houthis are prioritizing a military campaign … over suspending the war and moving relief to the Yemeni people,” State Department special representative Tim Lenderking said Friday.

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