Yemen Security Forces Neutralize ISIS Spokesperson in Seiyun Operation

Yemen's General Security Directorate announced the successful neutralization of Abu Hudhayfah Al-Ansari, the spokesperson for the ISIS terrorist organization, during a joint security operation in Seiyun, Hadramout Governorate. The operation, conducted early Tuesday, also resulted in the seizure of explosive devices and electronic equipment.

The operation was executed by the joint special forces of the coalition and the Yemeni counter-terrorism unit "Force 22," in collaboration and intelligence sharing between the General Security Directorate and the Saudi-led coalition's joint forces command. Al-Ansari was reportedly hiding in a residential house with eight civilians, including women and children, at the time of the raid.

During the operation, one individual found with Al-Ansari resisted arrest and was injured before receiving medical attention and being moved to a secure location. The women and children were safely evacuated from the premises without harm. A thorough search of the site uncovered a suicide vest, which was safely defused and detonated, along with two laptops, five mobile phones, and two tablet computers.

The General Security Directorate commended the bravery of the coalition's special forces and Force 22, emphasizing that the operation prioritized the protection of civilians and the avoidance of collateral damage to property and the densely populated residential area. The success of the mission was attributed to robust intelligence sharing, surveillance, reconnaissance, and operational planning.

The directorate reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing and apprehending wanted individuals and terrorist elements as part of the Yemeni government's counter-terrorism efforts. It also stressed the continuation of coordination and cooperation with coalition nations and international partners to combat terrorism, stating that Yemen will not serve as a haven for such groups.