Yemeni leader warns Houthis: 'Your miscalculations will lead to total collapse'

Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Rashad Al-Alimi praised what he described as the victories and field gains achieved by the armed forces and military formations in recent hours on the Taiz and Hodeidah fronts, affirming that government forces are pressing ahead to reclaim areas under Houthi control.

During calls with several military and field commanders, Al-Alimi said he had been briefed on the latest developments, combat readiness, and measures taken to secure and stabilize liberated areas, as well as efforts to clear sites infiltrated by Houthi militias.

The council chief commended the National Resistance Brigades, Giants Brigades, and Tihama Brigades after the full liberation and securing of Hays district in Hodeidah province. He also lauded the armed forces' performance on the Hayfan front, and highlighted the air force's role in supporting ground troops and addressing threats during operations.

Al-Alimi stressed that the Houthi militia would bear full responsibility for what he called the "adventure" it has chosen, emphasizing that Taiz would not serve as a safe passage for the projects and agendas backed by the group.

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He said the armed forces, which repelled attacks and seized the initiative on the ground, are capable—according to his remarks—of continuing to reclaim territory and fulfilling their duty to defend citizens and the nation's higher interests.

He added: "The militias have chosen to test the state and its armed forces on one of Yemen's most resilient fronts. They must now realize that their miscalculations will open the door to total collapse."

The council chairman instructed all commanders and military units to abide by international humanitarian law and rules of engagement, protect civilians and public and private property, facilitate aid delivery and relief for displaced people, and ensure the humane treatment and rights of detainees.

He said: "The hand that bears arms in defense of the republic must also remain the hand of the state and the rule of law."

Al-Alimi held the Houthi militia responsible for violations he said accompanied the recent escalation, accusing it of targeting residential areas and public roads with shelling, sniping, and drones, resulting, according to him, in civilian casualties, abductions, and the displacement of hundreds of families.

He stressed that these violations would not be subject to a statute of limitations, emphasizing that military operations must always prioritize civilian safety.

The council chief called on political and social forces, media, and intellectual platforms to unite the national front and strengthen confidence in the armed forces and military formations, warning against being drawn into campaigns of doubt, betrayal, or disputes.

He affirmed that restoring state institutions is, in his view, an irreversible national goal, regardless of the sacrifices required.

Al-Alimi also urged tribesmen and those misled in Houthi-controlled areas not to send their sons to fight, and encouraged those still with the group to return and not sacrifice their lives in a battle he said does not serve Yemenis' interests.

Concluding his remarks, Al-Alimi paid tribute to the fallen members of the armed forces and military formations, instructing relevant authorities to provide care and treatment for the wounded, and to support the families of those killed and guarantee their rights and entitlements.