Yemen Monitor / Mokha / Exclusive:
Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council member and commander of the National Resistance, Brig. Gen. Tariq Saleh, said that the recent tensions in Yemen’s eastern provinces — in reference to Hadramawt — fall within the framework of a broader “reorganization of the operational theater.”
UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces had already seized control of Wadi Hadramawt, committing extensive abuses against civilians during the takeover.
Speaking to several commanders of the Republican Guards (Tihama/Guards of the Republic) brigades, Brig. Gen. Saleh downplayed the consequences of the latest disputes in the east, describing them as a necessary step for “rearranging the theater of operations.”
He explained that the National Resistance has adhered, since its establishment, to a consistent strategy centered on avoiding confrontation with any parties—near or far. The remark implicitly pointed to efforts to maintain cohesion within the anti-Houthi front and bridge differences among components of the internationally recognized government.
The United Arab Emirates backs Tariq Saleh’s forces, which are primarily deployed along Yemen’s western coast.
During the meeting, monitored by Yemen Monitor, Saleh stressed that emerging from the current state of conflict and failure requires refocusing priorities and clearly identifying the enemy. He said:
“Our first and main enemy is the Houthis, and the country will not stabilize until we restore the capital.”
He added firmly:
“Our rifles are pointed forward — toward fighting the Houthis — and they will not turn back.”
The National Resistance commander revealed that extensive military preparations are underway, noting that the other side (the Houthis) is preparing for battle. “In response,” he said, “we are preparing for a decisive and conclusive battle — one that leaves no room for chaos.”
Saleh affirmed that his forces possess “full flexibility to move in any direction,” adding: “We do not want to fail anyone in any upcoming battle.”
He concluded by urging commanders and soldiers to maintain high morale, uphold unity of ranks and purpose, and rally around the central cause: fighting the Houthi project and reclaiming the land.
