Yemen's government declares a major operation against the Houthis, and other Mideast news

The Joint Forces Command of the Coalition, led by Maj. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki, will persist in providing full operational support to the Yemeni Armed Forces, according to a statement released by the Coalition Spokesperson. Al-Maliki emphasized the coalition's commitment to the legitimate Yemeni government and its people, vowing to end the Houthi coup and restore the Yemeni state and national institutions.

Al-Maliki highlighted the numerous terrorist attacks and assaults carried out by the Houthi militia against the Yemeni population. These acts include an internal blockade, forced displacement of citizens, starvation, looting of resources, and abuse of tribal elders and members. He also denounced the tearing of the social fabric, terrorization of women, and recruitment of child soldiers. Al-Maliki stressed that these actions are blatant violations causing widespread suffering to the Yemeni people.

The command specifically mentioned the ongoing Houthi terrorist attacks on Saudi Arabia. These attacks target holy cities, civilians, and civilian objects across multiple cities, including Riyadh, Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, Najran, Al-Taif, and Yanbu. They also target Kingdom's vessels in the southern Red Sea and Bab Al-Mandab Strait. Al-Maliki stated that these acts threaten regional and international security, warranting vital measures to deter the hostile actions of the terrorist Houthi militia.

Al-Maliki reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's inherent right to defend its sovereignty, protect its security, and take necessary operational measures against the Houthi militia. He affirmed the Kingdom's ongoing support for Yemen and its people until a fully restored state and institutions are achieved, the terrorist militia is eliminated, and the threat to maritime navigation in the southern Red Sea and Bab Al-Mandab Strait is eliminated.

He noted that this threat undermines regional and international security, jeopardizes freedom of navigation and international trade, and compromises the global economy and international security.