Taiz Authority Urges UN Probe into Suspected Chemical Shells by Houthis

The local authority in Taiz Governorate has called for an urgent technical investigation into field reports alleging the Houthi militia's use of rockets and artillery shells suspected of containing internationally prohibited toxic or gaseous substances. The authority urged the United Nations and international organizations to support verification efforts and hold those involved accountable if the allegations are proven.

In a statement issued by the Governorate's Information Office, the local authority indicated that it had received consistent field reports from several fronts, most recently from Aqrosh and Kahlan, detailing the militia's firing of shells suspected of containing toxic materials.

The statement noted that these reports follow previous incidents where severe cases of suffocation and fainting were observed among civilians and members of the popular resistance. It emphasized the necessity of investigating the nature of the emitted substances and identifying the causes of the health symptoms through technical examinations, medical reports, and the documentation of field testimonies.

The local authority requested relevant national bodies to swiftly dispatch a specialized technical team to inspect the targeted sites, document the incidents and associated health impacts, and determine the nature of the materials used. It also appealed to the United Nations and international organizations to provide the necessary support to ensure a professional investigation conducted according to international standards.

The local authority holds the Houthi militia responsible for the attacks, which it stated threaten the lives and safety of civilians. It warned of the repercussions of continued military escalation, asserting that any confirmed use of prohibited materials would necessitate the prosecution of those responsible before competent legal bodies and mechanisms.

The authority reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians and civilian objects, affirming the readiness of the armed forces and security agencies to take necessary measures to confront the attacks. It concluded that targeting the population or using prohibited means of warfare will not achieve the militia's operational objectives.