Today (Monday), Taiz witnessed massive protests affirming the shared destiny between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, in the context of rejecting blatant Iranian aggression against the Kingdom and Gulf states. Various political, youth, and popular groups participated in this event, expressing their full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Dr. Alfat Al-Dubai, a member of the Consultative and Reconciliation Body supporting the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, stated in a special interview with "Okaz": "Taiz represents the strategic depth of Arabism, and our stand today with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arab nation is an existential and fateful battle against Iranian ambitions that seek to erase our national identity." She emphasized that this solidarity is not merely a popular event but a living embodiment of shared destiny in confronting the Iranian expansionist project that aims to undermine the state and turn the region into hotbeds of sectarian conflict.
Details of the Event
The protests in Taiz today came at a sensitive time when the region is witnessing rapid transformations. Participants confirmed that the security of Saudi Arabia is an integral part of Yemen's security, stressing the need to enhance cooperation between the two countries to face common challenges. Al-Dubai affirmed that Taiz, which has suffered from the ravages of war, fully understands that its battle to restore the republic is inseparable from the battle of its brothers in the Kingdom to protect Arab national security.
She also pointed out that Taiz's Arab awareness stands guard against all external forces trying to redraw the map of the region to serve their terrorist ambitions. She emphasized the importance of uniting behind the Presidential Leadership Council and strengthening the strategic partnership with the Coalition to Support Legitimacy led by the Kingdom.
Context and Background
Taiz is considered one of the most affected Yemeni cities by the ongoing conflict, having witnessed fierce battles against the Houthi group. The city, which symbolizes resilience, has been under siege, making it a focal point for national efforts to restore the state. Al-Dubai called on the Houthis to return to the right path and join the shared Yemeni awareness, warning that their attempts to ignite regional fires would be futile.
She also emphasized the necessity of international support for a vision of Arab stability and the need to pressure for an end to the unjust siege of Taiz, which represents a war crime and an obstacle to any comprehensive political settlement. Al-Dubai considered that the model of the state that Taiz seeks aligns perfectly with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 for achieving stability and prosperity in the region.
Impact and Consequences
These protests come at a sensitive time, as regional tensions are rising due to Iranian activities in the area. Participants in the event affirmed that these activities pose a threat to Arab national security, necessitating a concerted effort among Arab countries to confront them. Al-Dubai noted that the political wisdom exercised by the Kingdom in dealing with current events reflects its commitment to maintaining regional stability.
She also affirmed that the path to stability requires empowering national states and restoring their sovereignty, which necessitates close unity among various political components in Yemen. Al-Dubai called for strengthening the partnership with the Kingdom to thwart the ambitions of those seeking to undermine Yemeni unity.
Significance for the Arab Region
The protests in Taiz today send a clear message to the Arab world, emphasizing the importance of unity and solidarity in facing common challenges. Participants expressed their full commitment to supporting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, affirming that their resilience against foreign projects is an integral part of the resilience of the Arab system.
In closing, Al-Dubai asserted that Taiz, the fortress of culture and politics, will remain a steadfast ally and loyal brother to the Kingdom, both in leadership and people, and that their resilience against external projects is part of the resilience of the Arab nation. Thus, Taiz looks forward to a bright future, where it will be an active and stable part of its authentic Arab surroundings.