Saudi Defence Minister Calls for Peaceful STC Withdrawal from Hadramout and al-Mahra

In a significant development regarding Yemen’s complex political landscape, Saudi Arabia’s Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman has urged the Southern Transitional Council (STC) to withdraw peacefully from the eastern provinces of Hadramout and al-Mahra. As tensions escalate in the region, the Saudi-led coalition has reiterated its commitment to responding to any military actions that might disrupt ongoing de-escalation efforts.

Urgent Call for Peaceful Withdrawal

On Saturday, Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman took to social media to declare that “it’s time” for STC forces to prioritize peace by withdrawing from these two provinces. He emphasized the need for reason to prevail and requested a non-violent exit from the area.

Brigadier General Turki al-Maliki, spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition, echoed these sentiments, stating that any military actions that contravene de-escalation initiatives would be addressed swiftly to protect civilian lives and restore order. He also criticized the STC for allegedly committing “serious and horrific human rights violations against civilians,” though no evidence was presented to support this claim.

Recent Conflicts and Accusations

The latest statements come right after the STC accused Saudi Arabia of conducting airstrikes against their positions in Hadramout province. This escalation has prompted calls from Washington for both sides to exercise restraint in the growing conflict.

Earlier this month, STC forces captured significant territories from Yemen’s Saudi-backed government in Hadramout and al-Mahra. Historically, the STC and the government have collaborated in confronting the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels.

Abdullah al-Alimi, a member of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, praised the Saudi defence minister’s comments, suggesting they indicate Saudi Arabia’s enduring commitment to Yemen’s security. Rashad al-Alimi, the head of the council, expressed concerns after an emergency meeting, labeling STC movements as serious infringements against civilians.

Ongoing Support for STC

The STC, which has previously enjoyed military and financial backing from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is aiming to reinstate the independently governed South Yemen. Following the strikes attributed to Saudi operations, the group has asserted their resolve to continue their stance.

International Appeal for Diplomacy

In response to the situation, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for restraint and ongoing diplomacy aimed at achieving a lasting resolution. Azerbaijan has also welcomed the de-escalation efforts led by Saudi Arabia and the UAE to alleviate tensions in Yemen.

In light of the recent airstrikes, Yemen’s government has urged the Saudi-led coalition to bolster its military support in Hadramout, where separatist forces have taken control. The government has called for all necessary military actions to protect innocent civilians and support the military forces in the area.

Reports indicate that approximately 15,000 Saudi-backed fighters are stationed near the Saudi border, although they have not yet received orders to advance into separatist territories. These troops are positioned at the outskirts of regions recently overtaken by the STC.

Strained Alliances and United Front

The moves by STC forces have increased strains on the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who are typically close allies but have been known to support opposing factions within Yemen. However, the UAE has publicly endorsed Saudi efforts to maintain security in Yemen, stressing the importance of unity among the two Gulf nations.

Yemen’s government comprises a diverse array of groups, including the separatists, and is primarily unified by their shared opposition to the Houthis. The Houthis have effectively expelled the government from Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, since 2014, and control a significant portion of northern Yemen.

Conclusion

As Yemen navigates its intricately woven political landscape, the appeals for a peaceful resolution reflect the urgent need for cooperation among its factions. The international community’s eye remains on the region as the situation develops.

• Saudi Defence Minister urges the STC to withdraw peacefully from Hadramout and al-Mahra.
• Saudi-led coalition warns against military actions that disrupt de-escalation efforts.
• Calls for diplomacy and restraint come amid escalating tensions.
• UAE supports Saudi efforts to stabilize security in Yemen as factions vie for power.