Saudi Arabia Announces End of Airstrikes in Yemen

The regional coalition led by Saudi Arabia announced on Tuesday evening, April 1, the end of airstrikes in Yemen and stated that operations in Yemen have now entered a political phase. Saudi Arabia claimed that its air operations have successfully removed the threat from the neighboring country. According to the German news agency, these operations are set to cease at midnight local time. Al Arabiya television, which is close to Saudi Arabia, reported that the regional coalition led by Riyadh is now focusing on security issues, combating terrorism, humanitarian aid, and a political solution regarding Yemen. Ahmed Asiri, the coalition spokesperson, stated that a new operation named 'Operation Renewed Hope' will begin on Wednesday, focusing on obstructing militia activities, protecting civilians, and supporting the transfer of individuals and aid. He added that if these actions require military operations, commanders will make decisions in this regard. Asiri stated that the coalition has achieved all its objectives in Yemeni territory. However, he emphasized that if there are movements by the Houthi Shiite group in Yemeni territory, the coalition forces will target them again. The past month’s airstrikes by Saudi Arabia in Yemen were referred to as 'Operation Decisiveness.' The end of Riyadh's military operations in this country comes as King Salman of Saudi Arabia ordered the National Guard forces to participate in operations against the Houthi militia. The main burden of the military operations by Saudi Arabia and its allies against the Shiite Houthi rebels over the past month has largely fallen on the air force of these countries. Amir Hossein Abdollahian, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, expressed hope earlier on Tuesday that Saudi airstrikes on Yemeni territory would cease 'in the coming hours.' He stated that this hope is 'following a series of efforts' that have been made.