On Tuesday, Saudi-led Arab Coalition Spokesperson Brigadier General Turki Al Maliki announced that they had launched a large-scale military operation in Yemen against the Iranian-backed Houthi group on all frontlines. According to his statements, the operation aims to liberate the whole country from the Houthis.
This came following that the liberation of the Shabwa province from the Houthis. Visiting the region in the wake of the military gains in Shabwa, Spokesperson Al Maliki said the operation would ensure safety, security, prosperity, and growth in Yemen.
Speaking at a joint press conference held with the province’s governor Awadh bin Al Wazer, Al Maliki said, “Yemen deserves a lot in all areas.”
Yemeni forces fighting against the Iranian-backed Houthi group stated on Monday they had established full control over oil-rich Shabwa province in a confrontation with the group for control of southern provinces, including Shabwa and neighboring Marib.
Following the incident, Yemeni army forces entered Houthi-controlled areas in the southern parts of Marib on Tuesday for the first time in months.
Since last September, the Houthis maintained control over Hareb, Al Abedia, and parts of Juba districts after making speedy inroads in the neighboring provinces of Al Bayda and Shabwa.
However, clashes have intensified around the region since the beginning of the year, particularly after the coalition dispatched reinforcement to Shabwa. In the conflicts around the region, the collaboration is seen between the UAE-supported Al Amaliqa (Giant Brigades) forces and the Yemeni army.
Underlining the significance of a united front against the Houthis, Saudi Ambassador to Yemen Mohammed Al Jaber said, “The consensus and the unification of the ranks of the Yemeni forces would lead to the restoration of the state, peace, and constructive dialogue on all issues.”
