Yemeni forces down US spy drone

The Yemeni Armed Forces have announced the successful downing of an American MQ-9 drone, marking the second such incident in three days and the ninth overall since the onset of the ongoing conflict known as the "battle of the promised conquest and sacred jihad" in support of Gaza.  

Brigadier General Yahya Sare'e, spokesperson for the Yemeni Armed Forces, confirmed that the drone was engaged by Yemeni air defenses while conducting surveillance and combat operations over Sa’adah. This downing represents a continuation of Yemen's efforts in what it terms as retaliation against US and British aggression, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.  

In his statement, Brigadier General Sare’e emphasised that the downing of this drone is not only a military victory but also a symbolic gesture in support of the Palestinian cause. He reaffirmed Yemen's commitment to persist in military operations until there is an end to what he describes as aggression and the blockade on Gaza.   The Yemeni Armed Forces also commemorated the martyrdom of fighter Maher al-Jazi, who they claim has honored the sacrifices of the Palestinian people. The statement called upon all Yemenis to uphold their religious, moral, and humanitarian obligations towards the Palestinians, whom they describe as enduring genocide.  

The recent downing of the MQ-9 drone follows a pattern of similar incidents dating back seven years. The first American MQ-9 drone was shot down on October 1, 2017, over Sanaa, an event that reportedly shocked the US-Saudi coalition. Subsequent downings occurred in June 2019 over Hodeidah, August 2019 over Dhamar, and March 2021 over Marib.   The continued success of these operations underscores the ongoing tension and conflict in the region, with Yemen's military activities reflecting broader geopolitical dynamics and regional support for the Palestinian cause.