Coalition airstrike in Mukalla thwarts arms smuggling in violation of Resolution 2216
In a significant development on the ground, reflecting the resolve of the Joint Forces Command in implementing international resolutions, the Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen conducted a limited, targeted military operation at the port of Mukalla. The operation targeted a shipment of weapons and armored vehicles that had been brought in by two Emirati vessels without the necessary official permits. This operation is a decisive measure to maintain security and prevent the flow of weapons outside the control of the state, which constitutes a clear violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2216.
Details of the violation and military operation
Field sources explained that the two ships arriving from the port of Fujairah disabled their navigation tracking systems in an attempt to conceal their activities before unloading large quantities of weapons and military vehicles to support the Southern Transitional Council forces. After physical evidence was established and the violation documented, the Coalition Air Force carried out a precise strike to neutralize this illicit military support, while fully adhering to the rules of engagement to ensure no collateral damage to the port's infrastructure or civilian casualties.
Background of Resolution 2216 and the importance of adhering to it
Security Council Resolution 2216, adopted under Chapter VII, is the primary international framework for addressing the Yemeni crisis, prohibiting the supply of weapons to armed groups outside the control of the legitimate government. The entry of these shipments without coordination with the Coalition leadership constitutes a clear violation of this resolution, necessitating a firm response to prevent Yemen from being flooded with further weapons that fuel internal conflicts and undermine the peace efforts led by the United Nations and the international community.
Dimensions of national security and securing Saudi borders
The danger of these actions is not limited to Yemen's internal affairs; it extends to threatening the national security of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Attempts to militarize the governorates of Hadramawt and Al-Mahra, which share a border with the Kingdom stretching approximately 700 kilometers, constitute a serious escalation. The strike came in response to a direct request from the head of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad al-Alimi, for immediate measures to protect civilians in these governorates and prevent any armed groups from imposing a fait accompli that threatens regional stability.
Political and military messages
This operation carries multiple messages, affirming that the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy will not tolerate any unilateral military actions that threaten Yemen's unity or the security of neighboring countries, regardless of who is behind them. The operation also reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to maintaining calm and de-escalation, and ensuring that Yemeni ports remain safe corridors for humanitarian aid and legitimate trade, and not conduits for arms smuggling and fueling chaos.
