United Nations Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, has called for all parties involved to show restraint and prevent further escalation as tensions rise in Yemen’s Hadramout and Al-Mahrah governorates. Grundberg, echoing the UN Secretary-General’s plea, emphasized the need for restraint, de-escalation, and dialogue to prevent actions that could worsen the situation. He highlighted the significance of ongoing regional mediation efforts and his engagement with Yemeni and regional stakeholders to support de-escalation and move towards a comprehensive political resolution in Yemen.
Saudi Arabia conducted airstrikes targeting Southern Transitional Council (STC) sites, including Hadrami Elite Forces positions near crucial oil fields, following the STC’s military expansion in eastern Yemen. Despite the lack of casualties or damage to military equipment, the strikes came after the STC’s takeover of Hadramout and expansion into Al-Mahrah without resistance, where they have enlisted local forces. The Yemeni government and Saudi Arabia have repeatedly urged de-escalation amid these developments.
Turki Al Maliki, spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, warned against military actions that hinder de-escalation efforts, emphasizing the protection of civilians. Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council Chairman, Rashad Al-Alimi, praised the coalition’s actions to counter what he termed as destabilizing moves by the STC in the two governorates. The STC, established in 2017, advocates for self-determination and independence for southern Yemen, despite being part of the Saudi-led coalition and Yemen’s government since 2022, continuing to push for southern secession.
