Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman called on the Southern Transitional Council in Yemen on Saturday to respond immediately to the Saudi-Emirati mediation efforts. He demanded the withdrawal of forces from camps in the Hadramawt and Al-Mahra governorates to end the military escalation that began in early December.
A call for wisdom and prioritizing the common good.
In a statement published on the “X” platform, the Saudi Defense Minister urged the Southern Transitional Council to “heed the voice of reason and wisdom.” He stressed the necessity of:
Withdrawal of forces: Evacuating the camps in the two governorates and peacefully handing them over to the “Homeland Shield Forces” and the local authorities.
Unity: The Prince warned that the unfortunate events have led to “division in the face of the enemy.” He affirmed that the Southern issue is a just political cause that cannot be resolved through “adventure” or imposing a fait accompli by force. Consensus-building and building trust are the solution.
A comprehensive solution: He emphasized that the Kingdom will not allow the Southern issue to be marginalized in any future political solution. However, it rejects its exploitation in conflicts that do not serve its core principles.
Coalition leadership issues stern warning
In conjunction with the Defense Minister’s statements, the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy issued a strongly worded statement through its official spokesperson, Major General Turki al-Maliki. The statement included the following points:
Protection of Civilians: Al-Maliki confirmed that the Coalition had responded to a request from the head of the Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad al-Alimi. He had previously received a request to take immediate action to protect civilians in Hadramawt from “violations committed by armed elements affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council.”
Direct action: The coalition stressed that any military actions that violate de-escalation efforts “will be dealt with directly at the time.” The goal is to protect lives and ensure the success of the Saudi-Emirati mediation.
Sacrifices and partnership, not conflict
Prince Khalid bin Salman emphasized that the sacrifices made by the Kingdom and its allies in the coalition to liberate Aden and the southern provinces were for the purpose of “restoring the state and the land.” They were not intended to instigate new conflicts or achieve narrow gains. He commended the southern leaders who recognized the gravity of the situation and contributed to restoring social peace, thus thwarting the plans of those “lying in wait for Yemen and the region.”
Background of the crisis
The governorates of Hadramawt and Al-Mahra have witnessed escalating military tensions since the beginning of December 2025, following military movements by the Southern Transitional Council. This prompted Riyadh and Abu Dhabi to intervene through joint mediation. The mediation aims to empower local authorities and the Homeland Shield Forces to manage security matters.
