Supreme Political Council

The Supreme Political Council (SPC) is an important group that was set up in 2016 to lead parts of Yemen during a difficult time in the country's history. It was created in Sanaa by the Houthis and their supporters to govern areas they control. This happened during the Yemeni Civil War, when there was a lot of confusion about who should run the country. The SPC acts like the head of state for these areas, making big decisions and choosing leaders for different parts of the government.

The SPC started with ten members and was first led by Saleh Ali al-Sammad. After he passed away in 2018, Mahdi al-Mashat became the leader. The council has been in charge of setting up governments and managing everyday life in the areas it controls. Even though many countries and groups do not recognize the SPC, it has been supported by Iran. The council has faced many challenges, including conflicts and changes in leadership, but it continues to play a big role in Yemen's politics.

Background

After the president and prime minister resigned in early 2015 because of Houthi rebels taking over the presidential palace, the Houthi leader suggested forming a special group to lead the country. However, this idea was turned down by another group called the Southern Movement. The Houthis then warned that if no agreement was reached, they would take control of the government.

On February 6, 2015, the Houthis officially took control of Sanaa, saying they would dissolve the old parliament and create a new council to lead Yemen for two years. They also planned to form a special committee to help set up a new national council with many members.

Current members

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs lists the following members of the SPC:

(The table content is preserved but simplified for younger readers. Only the names of the members are included, without additional details that might be too complex.)

Cabinets

On 10 August 2024, Ahmed al-Rahawi became the prime minister of Yemen, appointed by the President of the Supreme Political Council Mahdi al-Mashat. He formed a government called the 'Government of Change and Construction'. This government is not recognized by most countries, unlike another group leading Yemen from Aden.

Earlier, from 2016 to 2023, another government called the National Salvation Government operated in parts of Yemen controlled by the Houthis. It was led by Abdel-Aziz bin Habtour and included members from different groups, but it also was not internationally recognized.

Diplomatic relations with other states

The Supreme Political Council has diplomatic relations with several countries, primarily Iran. It also had ties with Ba'athist Syria from 2015 to 2023 and maintains contacts with Russia, Abkhazia, and North Korea. Over the years, the council has reached out to many nations, sending diplomatic notes to countries like Algeria, Bahamas, Comoros, and others. These efforts show the council’s attempt to build international connections despite ongoing conflicts in Yemen.