Yemen's House of Representatives has approved a request by President Rashad Al-Alimi to declare a state of general mobilization to counter the escalating military actions by the Houthi militia. The decision was made during a virtual meeting led by Parliament Speaker Sultan Al-Barakani to address the country's complex situation. The move aims to protect citizens, defend the republican system, and maintain national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The general mobilization, effective immediately, will remain in place until the reasons for its declaration cease to exist. The decision is based on the Yemeni constitution and laws regulating national mobilization, the Supreme Defense Council, and civil defense. President Al-Alimi had called for general mobilization on September 25, and on September 27, he sent an urgent memo to parliament requesting approval, citing the need to address the Houthi threat.
The parliament's decision was made in response to the "grave risks" posed by the Houthi war, which threatens the lives and security of citizens. The move is grounded in constitutional and legal provisions, including Article 37 of the constitution, which relates to general mobilization, and Article 119, which concerns the president's powers to declare a state of emergency and mobilization.
The Supreme Defense Council will convene continuously upon the declaration of general mobilization, overseeing the implementation of related measures. The council's role includes assessing situations of war, emergency, and mobilization, and taking necessary actions. The parliament emphasized the need for all political forces to put aside differences and coordinate with the Saudi-led coalition to counter the Houthi threat.
The general mobilization is part of a broader effort to defend the Yemeni revolution, unity, and republican system. The parliament praised the resilience and unity of Yemenis behind the legitimate government led by President Al-Alimi. The move also follows a series of Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, which the parliament condemned as a "dangerous escalation" threatening regional security and stability.
The parliament expressed appreciation for the support provided by the Saudi-led coalition to Yemen and its legitimate government. The coalition's efforts aim to restore state institutions and end the Houthi coup. The Yemeni government's efforts to counter the Houthi threat are seen as crucial to maintaining regional security and stability.
The approval of general mobilization reflects the Yemeni government's commitment to protecting its citizens and defending national sovereignty. The move is expected to bolster the country's military capabilities and enhance its ability to respond to the Houthi threat. The international community has been closely watching the developments in Yemen, with many countries expressing support for the Yemeni government's efforts to restore stability and security.
Key points
- Yemen's parliament approves general mobilization to counter Houthi escalation
- The move aims to protect citizens, defend the republican system, and maintain national sovereignty and territorial integrity
- The general mobilization will remain in place until the reasons for its declaration cease to exist