Brigadier General Hamdi Shukri of the Giants Forces targeted in Jaoula, Lahj; Coalition spokesperson Turki Al-Maliki labels attack a “criminal act.”
RIYADH – The Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen has denounced a deadly attack on Wednesday targeting the convoy of a high-ranking Yemeni military commander in the southern governorate of Lahj.
The ambush in the Jaoula area struck vehicles under the command of Brigadier General Hamdi Shukri, commander of the Second Division of the Giants Forces—a key Yemeni military unit allied with the internationally recognized government. Preliminary reports indicate the assault resulted in multiple deaths and injuries.
In a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Coalition spokesperson Major General Turki Al-Maliki condemned the attack as “a criminal act that is contrary to all human and moral values.” Al-Maliki affirmed that the Saudi-led coalition remains committed to working with Yemeni authorities to ensure civilian security and preserve stability in regions recaptured from Houthi control.
“We call on everyone to cooperate with the legitimate Yemeni government and military authorities to confront any sabotage attempts or terrorist operations targeting the security and stability of the liberated governorates,” Al-Maliki stated.
He further emphasized the coalition’s continued support for Yemeni security forces, pledging to pursue and bring to justice all those responsible for the assault.
No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, which highlights the persistent volatility in parts of southern Yemen despite areas being declared “liberated.” The Giants Forces have played a significant role in ground operations against the Houthis, making their leadership a repeated target for militants.
The incident underscores ongoing security challenges as Yemen navigates a fragile military and political landscape nearly a decade into conflict.
