Yemen's Taiz Authority Urges Probe into Alleged Toxic Shells by Houthi Forces
Taiz local authority calls for investigation into Houthi forces' alleged use of toxic shells
The local authority in Taiz, Yemen, has demanded an urgent technical investigation into claims that Houthi forces used shells suspected of containing internationally banned toxic substances on the al-Aqroudh and Kahlan fronts, the news agency of Yemen's internationally recognised government Saba (Government) reported.
Civilians and resistance fighters have previously suffered from suffocation and some have even lost consciousness due to the alleged use of these shells, (Saba news agency of Yemen's internationally recognised government)
The authority has called for medical documentation and identification of the substances used, and has sought support from the UN and international bodies to establish the facts and hold those responsible accountable. (Saba news agency of Yemen's internationally recognised government)
It has also warned against further escalation and urged measures to protect civilians, stressing that any proven violations would be pursued through legal mechanisms in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Background
The conflict in Yemen has been ongoing since 2015, with the Houthi forces controlling large parts of the country, including the capital Sana'a, and the internationally recognised government controlling smaller areas, including the southern province of Taiz.
The use of toxic substances in warfare is banned under international law, and the alleged use of such shells by Houthi forces has raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Yemen and the need for accountability.
