Ankara:The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen has pledged to continue its support for the Yemeni government and armed forces in their efforts to restore state institutions and end the Houthi takeover.

According to Anadolu Agency, coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki criticized Houthi attacks on Yemenis as severe violations that have caused significant hardship and suffering to the Yemeni people over several years. He accused the Houthis of internal blockades, forcibly displacing residents, and misappropriating resources to fund their war efforts.

Al-Maliki further alleged that the Houthis are recruiting children and damaging Yemen's social fabric. He stated that Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, including attempts to target religious cities such as Mecca and Medina, justify continued deterrent measures. Additional attacks on cities like Riyadh, Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, Najran, Taif, and Yanbu were also mentioned.

He highlighted threats posed by attempted attacks on Saudi vessels in the southern Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, describing them as risks to regional and international security, navigation freedom, and international trade. Al-Maliki emphasized Saudi Arabia's right to defend its sovereignty and security and to take necessary actions to counter the Houthis.

The coalition, he stated, would maintain its support for Yemen until state institutions are restored and the maritime threat is neutralized. Earlier, Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Rashad al-Alimi announced extensive military operations aimed at reclaiming territory from the Houthis. Concurrently, the Yemeni army declared the launch of the "battle of liberation" to reclaim state institutions and conclude the Houthi control.