Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Dr. Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi announced on Sunday the start of military operations aimed at retaking the remaining Yemeni territories under Houthi control, saying the government had moved from the preparation and mobilization phase to action on the ground.

In an address to the Yemeni people, Al-Alimi said the armed forces had been instructed to begin carrying out their missions to restore state institutions. He described the move as a continuation of the process announced on September 26, which included general mobilization and the launch of a “Safe Return” initiative for those wishing to leave Houthi ranks.

Al-Alimi said the government had given peace and de-escalation sufficient time and opportunities, arguing that those options had now been exhausted. He said the state was assuming its responsibility to restore its institutions and protect its citizens with the support of the Coalition to Support Legitimacy.

Addressing residents of Sanaa, Hodeidah, Saada and other Houthi-controlled areas, Al-Alimi stressed that the military operations were not a war against the population and did not target any sect or tribe, but were intended to restore state institutions.

He said civilians were not targets of the operations and urged residents to stay away from Houthi positions, gatherings and facilities used for military purposes. He also called on families not to allow their children to be drawn into the fighting.

Al-Alimi reiterated the government’s commitment to the “Safe Return” initiative, saying the door would remain open to Houthi members who choose to lay down their weapons and withdraw from the fighting.

He also expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s support for Yemen, describing the kingdom as an “essential partner in destiny and security.” He called on friendly and allied countries, as well as the international community, to support the Yemeni government and its armed forces during the next phase.

The announcement comes amid escalating military activity across several fronts and increased aerial operations in a number of provinces, as the Defense Ministry and General Staff move ahead with measures related to general mobilization, reserves and military readiness.

Al-Alimi’s announcement marks, according to the government’s stated position, a formal transition from preparation and mobilization to active military operations, as attention now turns to the scope and direction of the next phase of fighting.