The Deputy Chief of Staff discusses child recruitment and Houthi militia violations with an international expert.

Vice Chief of Staff Discusses Child Recruitment and Houthi Violations

In a significant meeting held today in Aden, the temporary capital of Yemen, Vice Chief of Staff Major General Ahmed Al-Basri engaged with human rights expert Patricia Pinto and weapons specialist Brick Betla. The discussion focused on the pressing issues of child recruitment and the violations committed by the Iranian-backed Houthi militias against civilians.

Efforts to Protect Children

The meeting, attended by Dr. Saleh Hassan, Assistant Minister of Defense for Logistics, reviewed the ongoing efforts and measures taken to protect children and prevent their exploitation in armed conflicts. These initiatives align with national laws and relevant international treaties.

Major General Al-Basri highlighted that the Houthi militias exploit summer camps to recruit tens of thousands of children. They employ systematic brainwashing techniques and promote sectarian ideologies, taking advantage of the dire economic conditions faced by citizens.

Government Actions and Rehabilitation Efforts

During confrontations, government forces successfully apprehended hundreds of children whom the Houthis had sent to the front lines. Al-Basri confirmed that these children received rehabilitation and were released back to their families for humanitarian reasons, reflecting the government’s commitment to protecting children’s rights.

The Vice Chief of Staff reaffirmed the armed forces’ dedication to implementing national laws and principles of international humanitarian law, particularly the 1990 law prohibiting child recruitment. This commitment aims to safeguard childhood and eliminate all forms of exploitation and violations.

Houthi Violations and Arms Smuggling

Al-Basri also pointed out that the Houthi militias exploit the maritime routes under their control to smuggle Iranian weapons and receive Iranian experts and members of Hezbollah. He noted that the militias commit severe violations against citizens in their controlled areas, including murder, torture, and enforced disappearances.

International Support and Collaboration

Patricia Pinto commended the Yemeni government’s efforts to protect children and prevent their recruitment. She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to enhance monitoring and documentation mechanisms, ensuring that perpetrators of violations do not escape accountability.

Pinto also reiterated the support of international organizations for programs aimed at rehabilitating children affected by conflicts. These initiatives focus on reintegrating them into society and providing necessary protection, which contributes to reducing this phenomenon and addressing its humanitarian impacts.

This meeting underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to protect vulnerable children in Yemen and hold violators accountable for their actions.

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