RIYADH, Dec 28 (NNN-SPA) – The spokesperson of the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, Turki Al Maliki, announced yesterday that, any military movements undermining de-escalation efforts, would be dealt with to protect civilians.
Al Maliki said, the measures were taken in response to a request from Rashad Al-Alimi, chairman of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), for immediate action, to protect civilians in Hadramout Governorate, following humanitarian violations by armed elements, affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council (STC).
He said that, coalition forces would respond directly and promptly to any military movements that violate de-escalation efforts, with the aim of safeguarding civilian lives.
Al Maliki added that, the actions form part of ongoing joint efforts by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, to reduce tensions, ensure the withdrawal of STC forces, hand over military camps to the Nation’s Shield Forces, a Saudi-backed Yemeni force, and enable local authorities to carry out their duties.
He reaffirmed the coalition’s continued support for Yemen’s legitimate government, and urged all parties to uphold their national responsibilities, exercise restraint, and engage with peaceful settlement efforts, to maintain security and stability.
Tensions in Yemen escalated on Dec 3, when STC forces took control of Hadramout, following clashes with pro-government units. The STC also criticised the PLC for failing to launch, what it described as, a serious campaign against the Houthis.– NNN-SPA