MARIB, March 09 (YPA) – Sultan al-Arada, governor of Marib in Hadi’s government, has just revealed shocking information about the situation on the ground in Marib and the extent of casualties suffered by coalition forces in recent battles.
This was reported by Yemen Press Agency on Monday, citing the Al-Arada’s statement.
Al-Arada said in a video statement at a press conference for Yemen’s international media program on Monday evening that the battle in Marib is unequal, and that Sanaa’s forces excel in the battle, besieging the city of Marib from three sides.
If the coalition warplanes had intervened, the situation would have been different, he said, referring to the fall of Marib province to Sana’a forces a long time ago.
Al-Arada confirmed the coalition forces’ losses in recent clashes in Marib province estimated at 18,000 dead and 50,000 wounded.
He noted Sanaa’s forces have shown superiority in the field battles, prompting Saudi Arabia to withdraw its troops from Marib, and the UAE has withdrawn the Patriot air defense system.
Al-Arada affirmed Sanaa forces are preparing to take control of the city.
Al-Arada’s remarks come as Sanaa forces advanced and took control of a number of heights overlooking the city, including the Balqin Mountains, al-Alam and Hamat al-Sa’aid, and approaching checkpoints at the northern gate of the city.
E.M