AiBotYemen – A recent surge in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) activity by Ansarallah militants has heightened tensions in Ma’rib Province, southwestern Yemen, where the Yemeni Government’s Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) maintains control. Local residents have taken to the streets in response to the threat, attempting to down the drones using small arms fire.
According to eyewitness accounts, multiple Ansarallah UAVs were spotted hovering over the outskirts of Ma’rib city, prompting an immediate response from locals. Eyewitnesses claim that the UAVs were flying at a relatively low altitude, approximately 500 meters above ground level, and were equipped with advanced navigation systems.
“We saw the drones flying overhead, and at first, we thought it was just a routine patrol,” said a local resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “But then we saw they were armed and seemed to be heading towards the city’s central district. We quickly gathered our families and prepared to defend ourselves.”
The Yemeni Government’s PLC has condemned the UAV activity, labeling it a clear violation of international airspace and a threat to regional security. The PLC has urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities, while also vowing to take decisive action against Ansarallah militants.
Ansarallah, also known as the Houthi movement, has been a major force in Yemen’s ongoing civil war. The group has been accused of numerous human rights violations, including the use of civilians as human shields and the targeting of military personnel and infrastructure.
Experts warn that the UAV activity in Ma’rib Province may be a prelude to a larger escalation of violence in the region. “This is a clear escalation by Ansarallah to exert pressure on the PLC and challenge its control over south-central Yemen,” said a Yemen analyst, who requested anonymity.
The Yemeni Government has been working to strengthen its military capabilities and establish a more robust security presence in the region. However, the recent UAV activity has raised concerns about the PLA’s ability to effectively counter Ansarallah’s asymmetric tactics.
In the meantime, local residents will continue to work with authorities to mitigate the threat posed by Ansarallah UAVs. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days and weeks.