By Afshain Afzal
In the recent development movements of UN recognized Yemeni forces were witnessed at the suburbs of Turbah, Taiz and Hayfan district. Presence of Houthis was also reported in the same place reflecting that a grand operation by Yemeni forces is about to take place for the complete takeover of these places. Shift of the local population was being planned to avoid collateral damage. Saudi Royal Air Force is trying to support the Yemeni government forces to establish order as Houthis have gone out of control and despite having no military might or military infrastructure are hitting civilian strategic targets in Muslim neighbouring countries. It has been confirmed in a number of cases that third countries including Iran and the US target Saudi Arabia but Houthis claims the responsibility to deceive if they have the military might.
Meanwhile, Turkish President issued a clear and concise statement supporting Saudi Arabia, declaring that ratification of MJDA is in progress at Turkish Parliament. Naval policing of the Babul Mandus (Mandab) to prevent arms shipment to rebel forces is at top priority. The 60 civilian volunteers as advance party from Sudan, as reported earlier, provided inputs but there were no visible traces of Sudanese civilian mass deployment. However, at three-location radio towers have been established to monitor communication and Houthis movements. Taiz is likely to be taken over by Friday. It was informed on the condition of anonymity that delay in complete takeover is due to precautions that no civilian loss takes place. There are two reports that say total 67 Houthis were killed since September while other reflect as high as 180 killed and 360 injured.
In another development, Saudi Arabia has been offered military assistance by at least six countries including France, Iraq, Syria and one country each from European Union and a Muslim nation. The assistance includes active participation of troops and positioning of military hardware in strategic location including Naval blockade for both defensive and offensive roles. However, Riyadh has turned down Iraq and Syria’s offer as it may drag the war to whole region. Saudi Arabia has confirmed that no Syrian or Iraqi troops or volunteers are there on Saudi soil in fight against Houthis rebels. It has been confirmed from Oman that heavy arm shipment destined for Riyadh has arrived in the port city some days back. Meanwhile, reports confirm French shipments 2 plus 2 thousand troops with latest defence system has moved out for Saudi Arabia but its latest position or deployment could not be confirmed.
An Emergency Meeting of the Strategic Political and Defense Committee of the Makkah Alliance for Defense was held last week awaits communication from Turkey and Pakistan. Pakistani Parliament has not held any official session regarding deployment of Pakistani forces in Saudi Arabia for active operations. However, despite rebuttal and denials by Islamabad about its involvement in Yemen, some reports still are declared classified. In another development Saudi Arabia has confirmed revival of normal commercial flights throughout Saudi Arabia from 17th October; signals that there are bright chances of peace. People of Yemen and other Muslims must realize that elimination of Houthis is no answer to peace in Yemen so all operations to takeover occupied areas by rebels must be limited and precise. There should be general pardon to all Houthis who give assurance that would only adopt peace methods to achieve their legitimate demands and would not cause bloodshed, terrorism or cause loss to neighbouring states. All Muslims should follow the Quran that no Muslim can kill another Muslim without a decree. Now all eyes are on Turkey and France to join hands with Saudi Arabia for the stability in Yemen and ensure all foreign military deployments cease at once in the region within specified timetable for the long-lasting peace in the region and beyond.