Yemen’s Defense Minister Declares Unwavering Readiness to Astonish Adversaries
Yemen’s Defense Minister Major General Mohammed Nasser al-Atifi recently voiced strong sentiments amid escalating tensions between Yemen and the United States. This comes on the heels of US President Donald Trump’s approval of airstrikes across Yemen, which have heightened concerns in the region. The situation remains tense as the Yemeni Armed Forces prepare to respond to provocations, asserting their commitment to pro-Palestinian operations against strategic targets.
In a recent statement, Atifi emphasized that Yemen would not remain silent in the face of what he described as “Zionist aggression.” He highlighted the nation’s resolve to retaliate against the blockade imposed on Palestinians in Gaza. The Yemeni defense minister stated, “If the Zionist enemy does lift its siege on Gaza people, the Yemeni armed forces are ready to develop the confrontation in proportion to the size of the challenge and any emergency situation.”
- Support for Gaza: Yemen has issued public warnings against the Israeli regime’s blockade, which has been critically affecting the entry of vital aid into the Gaza Strip.
- Military Readiness: Atifi confirmed that Yemen’s military capabilities, including missile forces and drones, are prepared for action in defense of Arab and Islamic nations.
- Response Strategy: The Yemeni defense minister warned that any escalation by Israel would be met with proportional responses from Yemen.
The situation has escalated following repeated Israeli attacks against Gaza, which have resulted in significant casualties. The recent bombardments claimed the lives of over 350 Gazans, many of whom were women and children. Atifi reiterated Yemen’s unwavering support for Gaza, stating, “We will continue our efforts until justice is achieved for Palestinians and their suffering ends.”
Yemen had previously paused its pro-Palestinian strikes after a ceasefire was established in January. However, operations targeting Israeli ships resumed when the Israeli regime failed to meet a deadline set by Sana’a to lift the siege and allow much-needed aid into Palestinian territories. This decision reflects Yemen’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause.
Atifi’s remarks also included a warning directed at nations that support the Israeli regime, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom. Both countries have increased their naval presence off Yemen’s coastline, which Atifi claims is an attempt to thwart Yemen’s pro-Palestinian actions. He stressed that Yemen would not stand idly by as its sovereignty is challenged.
Furthermore, the Yemeni official clarified that Yemen’s intention to prevent Israeli ships from traversing key waterways such as the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Gulf of Aden, and Arabian Sea is not aimed at disrupting international maritime navigation. Instead, it is a strategic move to protect Yemeni interests and uphold regional stability.
The Yemeni Armed Forces have ramped up their military preparedness, targeting American warships in response to heightened attacks. This proactive stance emphasizes Yemen’s determination to defend its rights and those of the Palestinian people against any form of aggression.
In conclusion, Major General Mohammed Nasser al-Atifi’s statements reflect Yemen’s unwavering commitment to its regional allies and the Palestinian cause. The escalating tensions between Yemen and the United States, combined with Israel’s ongoing aggression toward Gaza, highlight the complex dynamics in the region. As Yemen prepares to defend its interests, the international community watches closely, with the potential for further conflict looming on the horizon.
