The Yemeni armed forces, on the brink of a decisive transformation in the city of Taiz, have issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the peaceful exit of the Saudi-affiliated militants. These developments follow the recent advances of the Yemeni army and the consolidation of control over the strategic gates of this city, particularly the strategic area of "Sabir Al-Mawadim" in the southern outskirts.
Collapse of the Last Defensive Lines
With the severe reduction of the defensive lines of the Riyadh-affiliated militants, the command of the Sana'a forces has warned them that serious consequences will follow if they do not withdraw. While some military commanders affiliated with Saudi Arabia have responded positively to the proposal of surrender and leaving the city, factions such as the "Islah" party continue to resist in line with Saudi promises.
In the past two days, local entities affiliated with the Sana'a government have facilitated the exit of some of these commanders and ensured their security. Meanwhile, some armed groups remain inside this city of 3 million and are preparing for urban combat by turning neighborhoods into defensive lines.
Escalation of Airstrikes and Tribal Mediation
Following requests from tribal mediators to prevent harm to civilians, the Sana'a forces have given the militants a 48-hour deadline to leave the city. However, Saudi coalition fighter jets have intensified their airstrikes on the outskirts of Taiz as the deadline approaches. These attacks appear to be intended to send a message of continued air support to the militants for the continuation of the war.
Militarily, the consolidation of Sana'a forces' control over "Jabal Han," which dominates most of the western neighborhoods of Taiz, has placed the militants in a severe siege. The fall of this strategic point has eliminated these forces' access to observation and direct fire, paving the way for the Yemeni army's infiltration into the western part of the city.
In this situation, figures and tribal leaders in Taiz have intervened to contain the crisis and protect the lives of citizens, proposing three options to the leaders of the Islah party and armed groups. These options include handing over weapons in exchange for security guarantees, safe passage to Aden, and accepting the option of conflict if the first two proposals are rejected.
Local sources have warned of the consequences of turning the populous city of Taiz into a scene of street warfare and emphasized that the Sana'a forces will not allow the militants to use civilians and the residential fabric of the city as human shields.
