Saudi Brigadier Turki Al-Maliki, spokesman for the Arab coalition that supports the Executive, announced the operation “Freedom for a Happy Yemen.”

Al-Maliki made the remarks in the city of Ataq, the capital of Shabwa, taken this week by government forces and the Giants Brigade, backed by the United Arab Emirates.

Although he did not disclose further information, the press estimates that one of the main objectives of the campaign would be the neighboring province of Marib, rich in energy resources, and the target of an offensive by the Houthis that began in February last year.

Since then, the militia has advanced slowly towards the capital of that territory, amid violent clashes that have caused numerous casualties on both sides.

The Brigade of the Giants announced yesterday it has under control large areas of the district of Hareb, in the province of Marib.

In addition to its oil wealth, the province is key, as it represents the last great stronghold in the center of the country controlled by the forces of President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi, and also connects several surrounding provinces.

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