Saudi Arabia Urges Calm in Yemen Amid Separatist Actions
Saudi Arabia has called on separatist groups in southern Yemen, backed by the United Arab Emirates, to pull back their forces from two areas they now control. This request aims to prevent further conflict within the coalition that is working to counter the Iranian-supported Houthi rebels in northern Yemen.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry issued a statement emphasizing the need for stability and cooperation among all Yemeni groups. They expressed concern that the separatists’ actions are creating more problems and undermining efforts to bring peace to the region. Saudi Arabia supports the internationally recognized government of Yemen in its fight against the Houthis.
Meanwhile, the Houthi rebels held funerals for four of their fighters, including a top commander who was reportedly killed in a U.S. airstrike.
The separatist group, known as the Southern Transitional Council, recently moved into the governorates of Hadramout and Mahra. Saudi Arabia is trying to mediate a solution where the council’s forces return to their previous positions and hand over control of camps in those areas to the government’s forces.
Local officials in Hadramout have voiced their support for Saudi Arabia’s call for the separatists to withdraw.
The actions of the separatists have strained the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, both of whom are important players in the region and members of OPEC.
The Houthi rebels have been in control of Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, since 2014, forcing the government to operate from Aden. The conflict has led to a major humanitarian crisis, with many people facing famine and a lack of essential resources.
The ongoing unrest in Yemen has also disrupted shipping in the Red Sea, as the Houthis have launched attacks on commercial vessels.
The United States has been involved in the conflict, conducting airstrikes against the Houthi rebels.
The situation remains tense, with the potential for further escalation and continued suffering for the Yemeni people. Saudi Arabia’s call for calm and cooperation is a crucial step towards finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
