Taiz Local Authority Condemns Houthi Shelling of Al-Hadhara Market in Al-Wazi'iyah

The local authority in Taiz Governorate has strongly condemned the shelling of Al-Hadhara popular market in Al-Wazi'iyah district on Friday, which resulted in the killing and wounding of innocent civilians, holding the Houthi terrorist militia fully responsible for what it described as a heinous crime.

In a statement, the local authority said that, according to information provided by the Operations Room, no military aircraft had conducted any air operations in Al-Wazi'iyah district on Friday. It rejected any attempts to exploit the victims' deaths to mislead public opinion or deflect responsibility from those behind the attack.

The local authority noted that indiscriminate Houthi missile attacks, including failed attempts involving ballistic missiles, put civilian lives at risk and further exacerbate their suffering. It stressed that markets and residential gatherings are protected under international law and must remain off-limits to attacks, emphasizing that those responsible for such crimes must not be allowed to escape justice.

The authority called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack, urging the preservation of physical evidence and its examination by independent technical experts. It also urged residents to stay away from areas where projectiles have fallen, refrain from touching or moving any remnants, and report them to the relevant authorities.

Furthermore, it called on the United Nations and relevant human rights organizations to condemn attacks targeting civilians and support efforts to investigate the incident and ensure accountability.

The local authority extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery. It reaffirmed its full solidarity with the people of Al-Wazi'iyah, stressing the need for concerted efforts to provide relief to those affected, protect civilians and establish the facts surrounding this crime.