Yemen's Defense Minister, Lieutenant General Mohsen al-Da'ari, asserted on Monday, July 8th, 2024, that the Yemeni Armed Forces are not seeking war, but are fully prepared for it, according to the official Yemeni news agency Saba.

During the launch of the second phase of the 2024 training year at the Military College in Aden, the temporary capital, al-Da'ari stated, "We are not against peace, but if war is imposed on us, we will be ready for it."

He added, "We are for a just peace that guarantees the end of the coup, the restoration of state institutions, the deterrence of Houthi injustice and arrogance, and their aggression against the Yemeni people." Al-Da'ari emphasized the need to protect members of the armed forces from rumors aimed at undermining the military institution.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Staff of the Yemeni Army, Lieutenant General Sagheer bin Aziz, affirmed that the Yemeni Armed Forces are steadfast in fulfilling their sacred duties with courage and selflessness under the banner of the Yemeni Republic and national principles, following the orders and instructions of the legitimate leadership.

In a speech delivered during the launch of awareness-raising courses, bin Aziz highlighted that the armed forces, in all their formations and units, are more efficient and prepared than ever. He credited their unity, cohesion, and the dedication of their members for their ability to overcome challenges and risks, paving the way for the imposition of a lasting peace in Yemen, based on established references, safeguarding the gains, dignity, and pride of the Yemeni people.

He emphasized that victory would be for the Yemeni people, their republican project, and the goals and principles of September 26th and October 14th. He assured that Yemen will regain its state, stability, security, sovereignty, and happiness, liberating itself from the shackles of priesthood, colonialism, and projects of death, terrorism, and destruction. "Victory belongs to the rightful owners of the land, and justice will prevail."

Bin Aziz stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance and readiness to carry out entrusted tasks with efficiency and competence. He urged a decisive response to any desperate attempts by the Houthi terrorist group, supported by the Iranian regime, and to counter their hostile actions.

He called for strengthening patience, determination, and a sense of responsibility among all, moving forward to achieve the desired goals that the Yemeni people aspire to and for which thousands of leaders and heroes have sacrificed their lives and precious blood.

He emphasized that the pure blood spilled by the freedom fighters would bear fruit in the form of victory and glory for Yemen and all Yemenis suffering under the scourge of the war imposed by the rebel militia, who foolishly imagine transforming Yemen into a colony for Persia.

He stated that the Yemeni people trust their army and resistance, fully aware of the magnitude of sacrifices and the sincerity of their goals. They place their hope in their legitimate leadership and valiant forces to triumph over their freedom and dignity, liberating them from the crimes and violations of the Houthi group, their terrorist acts, and their excessive suppression and brutality against the Yemeni people.

These statements by the Defense Minister and Chief of Staff come amidst regional and international efforts to push the Yemeni parties to sign a roadmap for ending the war, which has been ongoing for ten years. However, there are local concerns that this roadmap does not meet the aspirations of the Yemeni people for lasting, comprehensive peace and equal citizenship.