Khawlan tribes give coalition factions in Mahra three days to release Al-Zaidi

SANAA, July 26 (YPA) – The Khawlan tribes of Sanaa province took on Saturday a firm stance after Saudi-backed factions had arrested tribal sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmed al-Zaidi, in Mahra province.

In a massive tribal rally in the Sharza area of Khawlan, hundreds of sheikhs, dignitaries, and members of Yemeni tribes, gave the coalition-backed local authorities and their armed factions in Mahra a three-day deadline for the release of Al-Zaidi, the leader of the Jahm tribe and one of the most senior sheikhs of Khawlan and Marib.

They considered Sheikh Al-Zaidi’s position a red line that would not be tolerated, no matter the cost. Participants in the meeting warned of dire consequences if their demands were not met.

The rally held the coalition and its affiliated Islah-affiliated factions in Mahra fully responsible for any undesirable escalation.

It called on the tribesmen to mobilize and prepare to free Sheikh al-Zaidi by force of arms if peaceful efforts fail to secure his release.

Sheikh al-Zaidi has been detained and kidnapped at the Sarfit border crossing since July while en route to the Sultanate of Oman for medical treatment.

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