Saudi-led coalition pledges full operational support for Yemeni forces

The coalition supporting legitimacy in Yemen reaffirmed its ongoing partnership with the internationally recognized Yemeni government, emphasizing its dedication to ending the coup. The alliance stated it will continue delivering comprehensive operational assistance to the Yemeni Armed Forces.

Coalition stance on Houthi actions

Brigadier General Turki Al-Malki, the official spokesperson for the coalition forces, addressed the situation in a statement. He characterized the Houthi militia as a terrorist entity engaging in persistent attacks and repeated practices against the Yemeni people.

Al-Malki described these actions as blatant violations that have brought years of misery and suffering upon Yemenis. The spokesperson linked the coalition’s continued support directly to the need to counter these specific behaviors attributed to the militia.

Targeting of Saudi territory and maritime routes

The Brigadier General highlighted attacks by the Houthi militia on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These included attempts to target the holy capital of Mecca and the city of Medina, along with deliberate and systematic strikes against civilians and civilian infrastructure.

Specific cities cited as targets included Riyadh, Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, Najran, Taif, and Yanbu. Additionally, Al-Malki pointed to attempts targeting Saudi vessels in the southern Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Justification for defensive measures

According to the spokesperson, these threats necessitate the continuation of necessary and urgent procedures to deter the hostile acts of the Houthi militia. The primary objective is protecting the security and sovereignty of the Kingdom, as well as regional and international stability.

Al-Malki asserted the inherent right of the Kingdom to defend its sovereignty and protect its security. He stated that all operational measures would be taken to deter the militia and halt their grave violations.

Commitment to restoring state institutions

The Kingdom emphasized its responsibility toward the Two Holy Mosques, its citizens, national assets, and residents within its borders. This duty underpins the decision to maintain military and operational pressure on the group.

Furthermore, Saudi Arabia confirmed its steadfast position alongside Yemen and its brotherly people. The goal remains the restoration of the state and its institutions, alongside eliminating the threat posed by the Houthi militia.

The coalition views the threat to freedom of maritime navigation in the southern Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait as undermining regional and international security. Such disruptions are described as threats to free navigation, international trade, and the global economic lifeline, affecting the national interests of all countries.