Sheikhs and dignitaries in Taiz call on those misled to stop fighting with the Houthis against their governorate and people.

Tribal Leaders in Taiz Call for Unity Against Houthi Militias

Tribal leaders and dignitaries from Taiz Governorate have expressed their determination to break the siege imposed by Houthi militias, which receive support from the Iranian regime. They emphasized that the future of Taiz deserves collective efforts to preserve lives, uphold the dignity of citizens, and protect future generations. They affirmed that such oppressive practices will not weaken the resolve of the people of Taiz or deter them from their rights, freedom, and dignity.

Condemnation of Houthi Actions

In a statement released today, which the Yemeni News Agency (Saba) received, the tribal leaders condemned the ongoing war, siege, and targeting of civilians by Houthi militias. They described these actions as a continuation of the violations and crimes against civilians in conflict zones. The leaders reiterated that these practices would not break the will of the people of Taiz or deter them from their rights and freedoms.

Rejection of Forced Recruitment

The tribal leaders strongly condemned the arbitrary practices and continuous violations committed by Houthi militias against citizens in areas under their control. These include home raids, violations of sanctity, and pressure on tribal leaders to recruit their sons for battles that target the people of Taiz and exacerbate their suffering. They renewed their rejection of forced recruitment and the exploitation of youth in conflicts that do not serve the interests of Yemenis.

Call for Reflection and Return

The statement urged the people of Taiz, particularly those misled into fighting alongside Houthi militias, to reconsider their positions. They called for an end to participation in the war against their own governorate and community, advocating for a return to their society and a commitment to reason and conscience. The leaders emphasized that continued involvement in battles targeting Taiz only increases suffering and threatens the lives and property of citizens, deepening the wounds of a community exhausted by years of war and siege.

Emphasis on Brotherhood and Peace

The statement declared, “Taiz is not your enemy, and its people are your family and brothers.” It called for an end to the war and for youth not to be used as fuel for a conflict that targets their own governorate. The leaders urged a return to their families and communities, contributing to peace and protecting the bonds of brotherhood and coexistence among the people of Taiz.

Responsibility of Tribal Leaders

The tribal leaders rejected all forms of forced recruitment, coercion, and threats. They held Houthi militias accountable for the harm inflicted on citizens and their families due to these practices. They called on tribal leaders and dignitaries in areas controlled by the militias to resist pressures aimed at recruiting their sons or pushing local youth to the frontlines, emphasizing the importance of not allowing their social status to be exploited to involve the youth of Taiz in a war that harms their families and future.

Warning Against Deceptive Initiatives

The leaders warned the people of Taiz against being deceived by initiatives and communications presented by the militias under the guise of “amnesty.” They urged caution in verifying the objectives of such initiatives and warned against their potential use for entrapment, extortion, or forced recruitment. They stressed the importance of responsibly engaging with anyone who reassesses their position and ceases participation in the fighting, thereby enhancing opportunities for peace and coexistence among the people of Taiz.

Collective Responsibility for Youth Protection

The statement highlighted the need for intensified efforts from tribal leaders, dignitaries, social figures, and guardians to protect youth from recruitment, manipulation, and forced conscription. They called for raising awareness about the dangers of participating in battles that target their own governorate and community. The leaders affirmed that protecting the lives of youth, the dignity of citizens, and preserving social fabric is a shared national and moral responsibility that requires prioritizing wisdom and rejecting practices that threaten the future of generations.

Acknowledgment of Sacrifices

The tribal leaders expressed their pride in the sacrifices made by the armed forces and popular resistance in Taiz in defense of the nation, the republic, and rights and freedoms, while confronting Houthi militias. They paid tribute to the souls of the martyrs and wished for a swift recovery for the wounded and injured, as well as the release of those forcibly detained and missing, hoping for their safe return to their families.

Appreciation for Saudi Support

The statement conveyed deep appreciation for the supportive role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in aiding Yemen and its people, as well as for its efforts to achieve security, stability, and peace, reflecting the deep historical and fraternal ties between the two countries and their peoples.

Final Call for Unity

The tribal leaders reiterated their appeal to all residents of Taiz, especially those misled into fighting alongside Houthi militias, to cease their participation in the war against their governorate and community. They urged a return to their society, prioritizing bonds of brotherhood and belonging over conflicts and differences. They called on dignitaries and leaders to fulfill their responsibilities in protecting youth from exploitation and working towards healing divisions and enhancing social cohesion.

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