Sultan al-Arada, the so-called governor of Ma’rib in the Saudi-backed Hadi puppet government, has revealed shocking information about the situation on the ground in Ma’rib, and the extent of casualties suffered by coalition forces in recent battles.
This was reported by Yemen Press Agency on Monday, citing Al-Arada’s statement.
Al-Arada said in a video statement at a press conference for Yemen’s international media program on Monday evening, that “the battle in Ma’rib is unequal,” and that “Sana’a forces excel in the battle, besieging the city of Ma’rib from three sides.”
Al-Arada said that the losses suffered by Saudi-led coalition forces in the recent clashes in Ma’rib province are estimated at 18,000 dead and 50,000 wounded.
He noted that the National Salvation Government forces “have shown superiority in the field battles, prompting Saudi Arabia to withdraw its troops from Ma’rib, and the UAE to withdraw its Patriot air defence system.”
Sultan Al-Arada affirmed that Sana’a forces are preparing to take control of the entire city.
Al-Arada’s remarks come as Yemen forces advanced and took control over a number of heights overlooking the city recently, including the Balqin Mountains, al-Alam and Hamat al-Sa’aid, and are approaching checkpoints at the northern gate of the city.