Saudi Arabia pardons soldiers over Yemen conflict

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia on Tuesday issued a sweeping royal pardon for its soldiers deployed in Yemen, lifting any ‘military and disciplinary’ penalties for troops taking part in its support of pro-government forces in the devastating conflict.

Yemeni government forces, backed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, are battling Shiite Huthi rebels in fighting that has killed some 10,000 Yemeni citizens and pushed the impoverished country to the brink of famine.

A statement announcing the pardon, published by Saudi Arabia’s government news agency SPA, did not mention any particular crimes, but said the move was to show appreciation for the ‘heroics and sacrifices’ of the country’s soldiers. — AFP