The national army's General Staff announced the martyrdom of 32 officers and soldiers of the First Military Region and the wounding of 45 others during armed clashes and attacks targeting the forces while they were performing their national and constitutional duty in Hadramawt Governorate. The statement also confirmed that a number of officers and soldiers are still missing.
In a statement, the General Staff mourned the heroic martyrs who fell defending themselves and their homeland against attacks it described as being carried out by groups affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council. The statement further indicated that these groups also liquidated a number of wounded soldiers and executed detainees, in flagrant violation of all local and international laws and norms.
The statement affirmed that these attacks have no legal or legitimate justification and aim to destabilize security and peace in the safe and stable Hadramawt Governorate, threaten the stability of liberated areas, and impose a fait accompli by force that would undermine the political process and circumvent the national frameworks governing the transitional phase.
The General Staff Command stressed the Armed Forces' commitment to their national duty to defend the homeland and its unity, restore the Yemeni state, and continue their fight against the Houthi terrorist militia. It emphasized that these attacks will only strengthen the forces' resolve and steadfastness in carrying out their duties in accordance with the constitution and the law, and under the orders and instructions of the political and military leadership.
The statement concluded by offering condolences for the martyrs who sacrificed their lives to protect the homeland, its unity, and preserve its dignity and achievements. It expressed sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to their families and loved ones, and to all members of the Armed Forces, and wished a speedy recovery to the wounded.