Sheikhs and dignitaries of Taiz call on the misled to stop fighting alongside the Houthis against their own governorate and people.

Taiz Elders Call for Unity Against Houthi Forces

Sheikhs and dignitaries from Taiz Governorate have asserted that the region will break the siege imposed by the Iranian-backed Houthi militia. They emphasized that the will of the people will lead to victory, and the future of Taiz deserves collective efforts to protect lives, uphold citizens’ dignity, and safeguard future generations. They noted that such oppressive actions will not diminish the resolve of Taiz residents 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 sheikhs and dignitaries condemned the Houthi militia’s ongoing war, siege, and targeting of civilians in Taiz. They described these actions as a continuation of the violations and crimes against civilians in conflict zones. The leaders reaffirmed that these practices will not weaken the determination of Taiz’s people or dissuade them from their rights and freedoms.

Denouncing Forced Recruitment

The sheikhs and dignitaries strongly condemned the arbitrary practices and continuous violations committed by the Houthi militia against citizens in areas under their control. These include home raids, violations of sanctity, and pressure on local leaders to recruit their sons for battles that exacerbate the suffering of Taiz residents.

They reiterated their rejection of forced recruitment and the exploitation of youth in conflicts that do not serve the interests of Yemenis. They urged Taiz residents who have been misled into fighting for the Houthis to reconsider their positions, cease participation in the war against their own governorate and people, and return to their communities. They called for rationality and conscience, emphasizing that continued involvement in battles targeting Taiz only increases suffering and threatens the lives and property of citizens.

A Call for Peace and Brotherhood

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

Responsibility for Citizens’ Safety

The sheikhs and dignitaries rejected all forms of forced recruitment, coercion, and threats, holding the Houthi militia accountable for the harm inflicted on citizens and their families due to these practices. They called on local leaders and dignitaries in Houthi-controlled areas to resist pressures aimed at recruiting their sons or sending local youth to the front lines, and to prevent the exploitation of their social status to drag Taiz residents into a war that harms their families and future.

Warning Against Deceptive Initiatives

The sheikhs warned the people of Taiz against being deceived by initiatives and communications presented by the Houthis under the guise of “amnesty.” They urged caution in verifying the intentions behind these offers, warning against their potential use for manipulation, extortion, or forced recruitment. They stressed the importance of responsibly engaging with anyone who reassesses their stance and halts their participation in the fighting, thereby enhancing opportunities for peace and coexistence among the residents.

Collective Responsibility for Youth Protection

The statement emphasized the need for intensified efforts by sheikhs, dignitaries, social figures, and parents to protect youth from recruitment, manipulation, and forced conscription. It highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of participating in battles that target their own governorate and people. The leaders affirmed that protecting the lives of youth, upholding citizens’ dignity, and preserving social fabric represent a shared national and moral responsibility, requiring wisdom and a rejection of practices that threaten future generations.

Acknowledgment of Armed Forces’ Sacrifices

The sheikhs and dignitaries of Taiz expressed their pride in the sacrifices made by the armed forces and popular resistance in the governorate in defense of the nation, the republic, and rights and freedoms, while confronting the Houthi militia. They honored the souls of the martyrs, wished for the swift recovery of the wounded, and called for the release of those unjustly detained and missing, hoping for their safe return to their families.

Appreciation for Saudi Support

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

A Final Call for Unity

The sheikhs and dignitaries of Taiz reiterated their appeal to all residents, especially those misled into fighting alongside the Houthis, to cease their participation in the war against their governorate and people, and to return to their communities. They urged local leaders to fulfill their responsibilities in protecting youth from exploitation and to work towards mending divisions and strengthening social cohesion.

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