Minister of Defense: It’s Time for the Southern Transitional Council to Withdraw Its Forces from Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra Camps
In a pivotal moment for Yemen‘s political landscape, Saudi Arabia‘s Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman, has emphasized the urgency of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) reassessing its military presence in Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra. He called for a unified approach to support ceasefire efforts amid ongoing tensions, signaling that it’s time for the STC to withdraw its forces from these camps. This article delves into the minister’s statements and the broader implications for regional stability and peace.
The Call for Reason and Unity
In a message directed at the Yemeni people via social media, Prince Khalid asserted, “It is time for the Southern Transitional Council at this sensitive stage to prioritize reason, wisdom, and the public interest by responding to Saudi-Emirati mediation efforts aimed at de-escalation.” His remarks underscore the crucial need for collective action, urging the STC to peacefully relinquish control of military installations in Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra to the national defense forces and local authorities.
The minister’s appeal is part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to providing substantial support to the Yemeni government. He noted that the Kingdom had invited allied nations to join the coalition supporting Yemen’s legitimate government, leveraging significant initiatives during operations like “Decisive Storm” and “Restoration of Hope” to regain control over the country’s territories.
Significance of the Southern File
Addressing the southern issue, Prince Khalid acknowledged it as a legitimate political matter that should not be reduced to individual interests or utilized in conflicts. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s role in facilitating dialogue among various Yemeni factions during the Riyadh Conference to create a pathway for a comprehensive political resolution that respects the southern cause.
“The Riyadh Agreement allowed for the active participation of southern representatives in governance, establishing a partnership instead of exclusion,” he stated. Furthermore, he emphasized that any ongoing military actions contradicting the truce efforts will face prompt action, as they jeopardize civilian safety and the overall peace process.
Regional Contributions and Sacrifices
Prince Khalid elaborated on the financial and humanitarian support provided by Saudi Arabia and its allies, aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by the Yemeni population. This assistance has been essential in bolstering resilience amid various adversities. He reflected on the sacrifices made by Saudi forces and their Yemeni counterparts in liberating critical regions, reaffirming that these efforts are meant to restore stability without inciting further strife.
Highlighting recent incidents that led to divisions within the ranks against a common enemy, he remarked on the importance of maintaining solidarity to preserve the progress achieved in the southern provinces. Prince Khalid expressed appreciation for the responsible role many southern leaders have taken to cease escalation in both Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra, recognizing the significant challenges facing Yemen.
Commitment to a Political Solution
In closing, Prince Khalid reiterated Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring that the southern issue remains central in any comprehensive political solution while emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts. “It should be resolved through consensus and trust-building among all Yemenis, not through actions that serve only the interests of adversaries,” he stated.
Supporting this sentiment, Major General Turki Al-Malki, spokesperson for the Coalition Supporting Legitimacy in Yemen, emphasized that any military activity that contravenes these diplomatic efforts will be addressed swiftly, highlighting the Coalition’s dedication to protecting civilian lives in the ongoing conflict.