Saudi Coalition Issues Warning to Yemen Separatists Amid Rising Tensions

On Saturday, the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen issued a stern warning, indicating immediate action would be taken against any military operations by southern separatist factions that jeopardize peace efforts in the southern region of the country.

Brigadier General Turki al-Maliki, spokesperson for the Saudi coalition, emphasized that any actions obstructing de-escalation would be swiftly addressed to protect civilian lives and maintain stability, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.

Al-Maliki accused the Southern Transitional Council (STC)—a separatist group supported by the UAE—of grave human rights violations against civilians but did not provide specific evidence to substantiate these claims.

Escalation Following Alleged Airstrikes

This warning came after the STC accused Saudi Arabia of conducting airstrikes against its forces, a claim Riyadh has not officially confirmed. Recent months have seen tensions rise between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, primarily due to the STC's expanding influence and territorial maneuvers in southern Yemen.

In a further response, the United States called for calm. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concern over developments in southeastern Yemen, urging all groups to seek dialogue and diplomatic solutions for a sustainable political resolution. He commended the diplomatic efforts of Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Power Struggles in Southern Yemen

The Yemeni civil conflict has persisted for over a decade. While Iran-aligned Houthi forces dominate the north, a Saudi- and UAE-backed coalition supports the recognized government in the south. Concurrently, the UAE backs the STC’s endeavors for an independent South Yemen.

Earlier this month, STC forces captured territories in the oil-rich governorates of Hadramout and Mahra, pushing out units linked to the Saudi-supported National Shield Forces, another coalition faction against the Houthis.

The coalition has insisted that STC forces withdraw from these two governorates, return authority to local leaders, and vacate military installations.

Rashad al-Alimi, head of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, issued a warning following an emergency meeting late Friday, declaring the separatists’ actions as significant violations against civilian safety. Coalition representatives highlighted that Saturday’s warning was issued at al-Alimi's request, aiming to protect civilians in Hadramout and avert further escalation.