Airstrikes in Yemen Stopped at President Hadi’s Request – Spokesman

Saudi Brigadier General Ahmed Asiri said that airstrikes in Yemen by a Saudi-led coalition against Houthi rebels has been stopped following the request of Yemeni President Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi.

MANAMA (Sputnik) – Airstrikes in Yemen by a Saudi-led coalition against Houthi rebels has been stopped following the request of Yemeni President Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, Saudi Brigadier General Ahmed Asiri said Tuesday.

"The operation has been stopped following the request of President Hadi and the lawful country's government," Asiri said at a televised press conference.

He also said that the sea blockade of Yemen continued in order to prevent possible deliveries of weapons to Houthi rebels by sea.

Asiri said the coalition forces would continue to hinder the movement of Houthis across Yemen and defend civilian population of the southern port city of Aden.

Saudi Arabia, alongside its Arab allies, has been carrying out airstrikes on Houthi positions in conflict-torn Yemen after Hadi asked the Arab League for military aid in late March.

The coalition's actions are now switching to "Restoring Hope" campaign that will focus on counter-terrorism operations, humanitarian missions, and the revival of political dialogue in Yemen.

According to the United Nations, more than 700 people have been killed and 2,700 wounded since the beginning of the Saudi-led campaign.