In a significant development, Saudi Arabia has urged the Southern Transitional Council (STC) to withdraw its military presence from the provinces of Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra. This request comes amidst ongoing tensions that have escalated due to the unilateral actions taken by the STC, raising concerns over stability in the region and the implications for Yemen’s overall peace process. This emphasis highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to seeking a resolution that ensures the welfare of all Yemeni people.
Saudi Arabia’s Concerns
In a statement from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was noted, “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia points out that the military movements in the provinces of Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra by the Southern Transitional Council have been conducted unilaterally without the approval of the Presidential Leadership Council or coordination with the coalition leadership.” This action has led to unjustified escalations that have adversely affected the interests of the Yemeni people across various segments, as well as the Southern issue and the coalition’s efforts.
A Focus on Unity and Peace
The statement further emphasized the Kingdom’s long-standing preference for unity among Yemeni factions, stating, “Saudi Arabia has preferred to focus on the unity of ranks and exert all efforts to reach peaceful solutions to address the conditions in the two provinces.” This approach indicates Saudi Arabia’s willingness to collaborate with international partners, including the United Arab Emirates and Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, to defuse the situation.
Efforts to Stabilize the Region
As part of these diplomatic efforts, a joint military team from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates was dispatched to facilitate discussions with the STC in Aden. This team aims to establish necessary arrangements for the return of STC forces to their previous positions outside Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra and to hand over military camps to local authority forces in an organized manner overseen by the coalition forces.
Call for De-escalation and Collaboration
The Kingdom reiterated the ongoing nature of these efforts, stating, “Saudi Arabia still relies on the general interest for the Southern Transitional Council to take the initiative to de-escalate and withdraw its troops promptly and smoothly from the two provinces.” The Ministry also stressed the importance of cooperation among all Yemeni powers and components in maintaining calm and avoiding actions that could threaten security and stability.
In closing remarks, the Ministry declared that the Southern issue is a just cause with deep historical and social dimensions and can only be resolved through dialogue among all Yemeni parties as part of a comprehensive political solution. Saudi Arabia remains committed to supporting the President, the Presidential Leadership Council, and the Yemeni government in achieving security, stability, development, and peace in Yemen.