Sat Dec 27 16:36:33 UTC 2025: Saudi Arabia Urges Yemeni Separatists to Withdraw from Seized Provinces, Warns Against Escalation

RIYADH – Saudi Arabia is intensifying pressure on the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist group in Yemen, urging them to “peacefully” withdraw from the recently seized provinces of Hadramout and al-Mahra. Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman issued a statement on Saturday calling on the STC to “let reason prevail” and retreat.

The Saudi-led coalition, which has been involved in Yemen’s civil war, warned that any military actions by the STC that undermine de-escalation efforts would be met with “direct and immediate” response. Brigadier General Turki al-Maliki, a coalition spokesperson, also accused the STC of “serious and horrific human rights violations against civilians,” although he provided no evidence.

The STC’s recent territorial gains have strained the already complex situation in Yemen, where a Saudi-backed government is battling both the separatists and the Houthi rebels. The STC, which seeks the revival of an independent South Yemen and has previously received support from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has vowed to remain undeterred.

The escalating tensions follow accusations by the STC that Saudi Arabia launched airstrikes against their positions in Hadramout. Yemen’s internationally recognized government has urged the Saudi-led coalition to support its forces in Hadramout, calling for military measures to protect civilians.

The United States has also weighed in, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging restraint and continued diplomacy.

The situation highlights the fractured alliances within Yemen, where the government is a patchwork of groups united primarily by their opposition to the Houthis. The Houthi rebels control much of northern Yemen, including the capital Sanaa.

While the UAE has expressed support for Saudi Arabia’s efforts to maintain security in Yemen, the STC’s advances have added pressure on the relationship between the two Gulf allies. Azerbaijan has expressed support for the de-escalation efforts led by Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Approximately 15,000 Saudi-backed fighters are reportedly massed near the Saudi border, awaiting orders regarding a potential advance.

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