Rashad al-Alimi urges Houthi militias to disarm

Rashad al-Alimi, Chairman of Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, has issued a message stating that the opportunity remains for Houthi militias to lay down their arms and participate in nation-building. During a meeting with media representatives, Alimi emphasized that the Yemeni state is now more cohesive and prepared to protect its citizens and sovereign interests following years of unifying political, military, security, and economic decision-making.

Alimi stated that the state's strategy is focused on restoring institutions and toppling the coup, noting that the military now operates under a single operations room and a unified command structure. He warned that previous truces were used by the Houthis to rebuild military capabilities rather than pursue peace, asserting that the government is now seeking a permanent and sustainable peace based on state sovereignty.

On the economic front, Alimi described the resumption of oil exports as a sovereign decision intended to ensure national wealth is used for salaries and public services. He noted that Houthi attacks on oil facilities in October 2022 cost the government approximately 70 percent of its resources, with damages exceeding 40 million dollars.