Yemen 's Sunni government , Shiite and rebels have clashed intermittently for years . Yemen has accused Shiite - dominated Iran of supporting the rebels . `` We strongly advise regional and neighboring states not to interfere in Yemen 's internal affairs and try to restore peace and stability to the state , '' Mottaki said , adding , `` Those who choose to fuel the flames of conflict must know that the fire will reach them . '' Yemen claims it had seized an Iranian ship near its territorial waters . Some worry Yemen could be stage for proxy struggle between Iran , Saudi monarchy .
Yemen 's Sunni government , Shiite and rebels have clashed intermittently for years . Yemen has accused Shiite - dominated Iran of supporting the rebels . Yemen claims it had seized an Iranian ship near its territorial waters . Some worry Yemen could be stage for proxy struggle between Iran , Saudi monarchy .