Aden, Yemen – The Yemeni National Defense Council, during an extraordinary meeting chaired by Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Rashad al-Alimi, ordered the expansion of air and missile deterrent operations against Houthi threats. This was to be done in full coordination with all military axes and formations. The Council also directed that military and security readiness be maintained at its highest levels on all fronts.
The Council affirmed, in an official statement carried by the Yemeni news agency Saba, that the Houthis’ continued targeting of displaced persons camps, civilian infrastructure, and economic facilities “will not achieve any gains for the Houthis on the ground.” Nor will it affect the government forces’ resolve to end the group’s coup. The Council also directed the strengthening of the early warning system and the enhancement of protection for vital and sovereign facilities. Furthermore, it stressed the need to intensify intelligence and security efforts to pursue Houthi cells and smuggling and internal supply networks. It called for linking these measures to a swift and effective judicial process to strengthen the integration of state institutions.
Discussing the Houthi escalation and addressing the humanitarian damage
The Council discussed the perceived field situation and the attacks launched by the Houthis using ballistic missiles and drones against sovereign facilities, civilian infrastructure, and citizens’ homes. These attacks have resulted in casualties and injuries, including women and children. In this context, the Defense Council directed the government, local authorities, and relevant bodies to expedite the assessment and repair of the damage. It also emphasized the importance of rehabilitating damaged public and service facilities. Furthermore, it stressed the need to provide necessary medical care for the wounded and support for the families of the deceased. The Council also called for urgent measures to mitigate the severe humanitarian and economic repercussions suffered by the population as a result of these attacks.
The Yemeni army announces the execution of 133 military operations.
In a related development on the ground, following the statement issued by the National Defense Council, the official spokesperson for the Yemeni Armed Forces, Colonel Majid al-Nuzaili, announced the execution of 133 military operations against Houthi capabilities and personnel in the past 24 hours. Al-Nuzaili explained that the Armed Forces utilized rocket launchers, artillery, and drones in these operations to precisely destroy the sources of the threat. He also noted that the operations were carried out with the active participation of army units stationed along the front lines to counter any potential violations or escalation by the militias.
