Aden, Yemen – The commander of Yemen’s ‘Nation Shield’ forces has called on leaders of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) to prioritize the public interest and prevent further bloodshed. In a recent statement, Bashir al-Subaihi urged STC forces to peacefully withdraw from their camps and hand them over to the ‘Nation Shield’ forces, emphasizing that these forces are comprised of individuals from the same communities and pose no threat of harm or exclusion.
Al-Subaihi stated that his message is driven by a desire to unify efforts, prevent discord, and safeguard the country. He stressed that transferring control of the camps to the ‘Nation Shield’ would protect lives and avert further internal conflict. “What prevents you from prioritizing the public good, withdrawing from the camps, and handing them over to these forces, thereby safeguarding their lives and your own?” he questioned.
The commander assured that, on behalf of the ‘Nation Shield’ leadership, he guarantees the safety and security of all STC leaders and members. He affirmed that their rights would be fully protected, and their entitlements would remain unchanged. He appealed to them to avoid the spilling of Muslim blood for the sake of transient worldly gains.
Al-Subaihi referenced the verse {وَإِن جَنَحوا لِلسَّلْمِ فَاجْنَحْ لَهَا وَتَوَكَلْ عَلَى اللَهِ}, emphasizing that choosing peace would not lead to the loss of rights but rather contribute to the preservation of lives and the strengthening of internal unity in the face of a common adversary. He expressed surprise at what he described as the obstinacy of some leaders, despite the willingness of the ‘Nation Shield’ forces to replace withdrawing forces with southern troops from the same regions.
He explained that the withdrawal would be based on a principle of reciprocity, with individuals from each region – whether al-Dhale, Radfan, or Yafa – replacing those from their respective areas, thereby preventing regional sensitivities. Al-Subaihi indicated that this arrangement aims to prevent bloodshed, avert discord, unify efforts, and pave the way for victory over the shared enemy that Yemenis aspire to be rid of.
He concluded his statement with a prayer that his message would be well-received by the STC leadership and that it would contribute to overcoming the current crisis. He prayed for the protection of Yemen.
