Saudi Airstrikes Target UAE-Backed Forces in Southern Yemen

Saudi warplanes launched airstrikes on March 15, 2024, targeting forces in southern Yemen that are supported by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This operation took place amid escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE over control in the region, particularly concerning the Southern Transitional Council (STC). There were no immediate reports of casualties following the strikes.

Background of the Conflict

The airstrikes come as part of a broader Saudi-led effort to reclaim territory controlled by the STC in Hadramout, a governorate that borders Saudi Arabia. The STC had advanced into Hadramout and the nearby governorate of Mahra in February, seizing an oil-rich region. This move displaced forces affiliated with the Saudi-backed National Shield Forces, who are part of the coalition fighting against the Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen.

In an escalating situation, Ahmed bin Breik, a leader within the STC, confirmed that the Saudi-backed forces had approached their camps. However, he stated that the STC would not withdraw, which likely prompted the airstrikes. The current situation reflects a significant rift between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, both of which were previously united in their support for the Yemeni government.

Statements and Reactions

Following the strikes, Salem al-Khanbashi, the newly appointed governor of Hadramout, described the operation as “peaceful.” He emphasized that it was not a declaration of war but rather a “responsible pre-emptive measure” aimed at removing weapons and preventing chaos in the region. Al-Khanbashi stated, “This operation does not seek escalation,” during a speech broadcast on state media.

The Saudi-led coalition has demanded the withdrawal of STC forces from both Hadramout and Mahra as part of ongoing de-escalation efforts. Despite these demands, the STC has thus far refused to relinquish its weapons or vacate the camps.

In a post on X, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed al-Jaber, expressed frustration over the STC’s refusal to cooperate. He noted that the kingdom had made significant efforts to engage with the STC to mitigate the rising tensions, only to encounter “continued intransigence” from the STC leader, Aidarous al-Zubaidi.

Al-Jaber highlighted that the latest incident involved the STC blocking a Saudi mediation delegation from landing in Aden, further complicating the situation. Yemen’s transport ministry, which aligns with the STC, criticized Saudi Arabia’s recent requirements for flights to and from Aden International Airport to undergo inspection in Jeddah, expressing “shock” at the decision.

The ongoing conflict in Yemen has persisted for over a decade, resulting in a fragmented political landscape. The Houthis control much of northern Yemen, while a Saudi-UAE-backed coalition supports the internationally recognized government in the south. Notably, the UAE has also provided support to the southern separatists, who have increasingly advocated for the secession of South Yemen, which existed as an independent state from 1967 until its unification with North Yemen in 1990.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can bring lasting peace to a country that has endured significant turmoil.