A protest in Geneva calls on the international community to lift the siege on Taiz and designate the Houthis as a terrorist group.

Protest in Geneva Calls for Lifting Siege on Taiz

A protest held in Geneva urged the United Nations, the Security Council, and the international community to lift the siege on the city of Taiz. Participants called for an end to violations against civilians and demanded practical steps to alleviate the suffering of the population. They emphasized the need for accountability regarding crimes and violations committed in Yemen by the Iran-backed Houthi militia.

Humanitarian Association Organizes Protest

The protest, organized by the Humanitarian Rights Association, took place in the United Nations Square in Geneva on Thursday. It aimed to show solidarity with the besieged city of Taiz. The participants called for a complete and permanent lifting of the siege, the opening of roads and access points for civilians, and the assurance of safe and regular flows of food, medicine, fuel, water, and humanitarian aid.

International Community Urged to Take Action

In a statement issued during the protest, participants called for a firm international stance against the Houthi group. They advocated for classifying the Houthis as a terrorist organization under applicable legal frameworks. Additionally, they demanded the cessation of funding and arms supplies used in armed activities and violations. The statement also called for enhancing independent investigation and documentation mechanisms, holding accountable those responsible for crimes against civilians in accordance with international law.

Support for Yemeni State Institutions

The statement highlighted the importance of supporting Yemeni state institutions and strengthening the rule of law. It rejected any political settlements that would entrench the power of armed groups or grant immunity to perpetrators of violations. Furthermore, the participants called for an intensified humanitarian response in Taiz and other affected areas, as well as protection for journalists, human rights defenders, and activists documenting violations.

Solidarity with Taiz Residents

The statement reaffirmed solidarity with the people of Taiz and their defenders across various fronts. It called for continued human rights, media, and political efforts to keep the city’s plight on the international agenda. Participants urged translating this solidarity into practical steps that would help end the siege and halt violations.

International Responsibility Highlighted

The statement asserted that the issue of Taiz extends beyond local boundaries, representing a test of the international community’s commitment to protecting civilians and enforcing the law. It called for responsible international action to end the suffering of the population, provide justice for victims, and support the establishment of a secure and stable Yemeni state based on justice, equal citizenship, and respect for human rights.

Participation of Political Figures and Activists

The protest witnessed participation from parliamentarians, political figures, human rights activists, and journalists. They delivered speeches addressing the consequences of the war in Yemen, Houthi violations, and the humanitarian situation in Taiz amid the ongoing siege, which imposes severe restrictions on civilians’ access to food, medicine, fuel, water, and essential services.

Call for Serious International Action

Speakers emphasized that the continued siege of Taiz represents a humanitarian and human rights issue that requires serious international action. They stressed the necessity of protecting civilians, ensuring freedom of movement, securing access to aid and essential supplies, and preventing the ongoing suffering of the population without effective measures being taken.

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