The Minister of Information visits the naval forces in the Fifth Region, praising their efforts in securing the islands.

Today, Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism Muammar Al-Eryani conducted an inspection visit to the naval forces of the Fifth Military Region in northern Hajjah Governorate. Accompanied by Major General Yahya Salah, the commander of the Fifth Military Region, Al-Eryani toured the Midi Port and the Yemeni islands off the coastal area of Hajjah along the Red Sea.

Greetings from the President

During the visit, Al-Eryani conveyed the greetings of President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi and the members of the Presidential Leadership Council. He emphasized their support and attention to all forces within the Fifth Military Region.

Commending Naval Operations

The minister praised the naval forces for their critical role in securing the region and protecting Yemen’s coastal areas, which include 37 islands, some of which are inhabited. He highlighted the importance of these forces in maintaining security amid escalating threats from Houthi militias, who have repeatedly targeted commercial vessels and oil tankers. This situation poses a direct threat to international maritime safety in one of the world’s most vital shipping lanes.

Strategic Importance of Yemeni Islands

Al-Eryani underscored that the Yemeni islands serve as strategic points for securing supply lines and protecting maritime routes. These efforts are crucial not only against Houthi attacks, which receive orders and support from the Iranian regime, but also in countering terrorist activities and arms smuggling operations that fuel the Houthi war machine and threaten regional and international stability.

Call for International Support

The minister stressed that the Houthi escalation requires a serious response from the international community. He called for support for the Yemeni government’s efforts to enhance the capabilities of the coast guard and naval forces, enabling them to fulfill their essential role in protecting national sovereignty and ensuring international navigation.

Acknowledging Coalition Support

Al-Eryani acknowledged the significant role played by the Saudi-led Coalition to Support Legitimacy since 2015. He noted that the coalition has secured 90% of the coastal strip and protected international maritime routes, neutralizing Houthi threats in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab, and the Gulf of Aden. This has been achieved through the thwarting of hundreds of terrorist attacks and the destruction of numerous explosive boats and naval mines.

Insights from the Naval Command

During a visit to Tawak Island aboard an armed vessel designated for protection and reconnaissance operations, Al-Eryani and Salah received a brief overview from Colonel Hamdi Al-Qasimi, a naval officer in the Fifth Military Region. He explained the formation’s tasks, operational theater, and achievements in securing the area.

Commitment to Strengthening Armed Forces

This visit reflects the Yemeni government’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the armed forces and providing the necessary support for them to fulfill their national duties effectively. It also demonstrates the government’s dedication to monitoring conditions in various military regions and addressing their needs in the face of Houthi militia threats.

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