Al-Asidi: Taiz defends the republic and freedom, demanding its right to life.

Taiz: A Symbol of Resistance for Freedom and Justice

Nabil Al-Asidi, a member of the Yemeni Journalists Syndicate, emphasized that Taiz not only defends its mountains and roads but also champions the ideals of the republic, freedom, pluralism, equality, and the rule of law. He highlighted the right of Yemenis to live in a state where citizens do not fear weapons, children have access to education, and the sick are not abandoned due to blockades.

Taiz: A Memory of Resistance

During a protest organized by the Yemeni community in front of the Peace Palace in The Hague, Al-Asidi stated that Taiz represents a Yemeni memory that resists oblivion and a national conscience that refuses to succumb to fear. He affirmed that the suffering and resilience of Taiz’s people extend beyond local concerns; they resonate with every Yemeni aspiring for a just state and every individual who believes in the inherent rights of freedom and dignity.

Ongoing Suffering and Humanitarian Crisis

Al-Asidi explained that the city has endured years of siege, bombardment, and fear. Its residents have paid a heavy price in lives, youth, and the dreams of their children. He pointed out that the ongoing restrictions on access to food, fuel, and medicine create a humanitarian crisis that should not be treated as mere news or statistics.

Calls for Action

He called for lifting the siege on Taiz, opening roads for citizens, ensuring the delivery of food, medicine, and fuel, and protecting civilians from bombardment and targeting. He also demanded accountability for those responsible for violations according to the law.

The Issue of Child Recruitment

Al-Asidi addressed the issue of child recruitment in the conflict, noting that many children who should be attending school are being sent by the Houthi militia to the frontlines. This often results in their return as casualties, prisoners, or individuals with permanent disabilities. He highlighted the heartbreaking images of captured children crying and pleading, which reflect the magnitude of their suffering.

Protecting Children’s Rights

He urged an end to the recruitment of children, emphasizing the need to protect them and ensure their rights to life and education. Al-Asidi remarked that the resilience of Taiz, despite limited resources and prolonged suffering, showcases the strength of its people’s will.

Raising Awareness on an International Stage

The protest in The Hague aimed to amplify the voices of Taiz’s residents to international institutions, human rights organizations, and entities capable of helping to end the siege and alleviate the suffering of the population.

Fundamental Demands of Taiz

Al-Asidi reiterated that the demands of Taiz’s residents include lifting the siege, opening roads, protecting civilians, and rescuing children from the ravages of war. He stressed that the city does not seek the impossible but rather demands its right to life.

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