The coalition warns against military escalation in Hadramawt to protect civilians
The Saudi-led coalition supporting the legitimate government in Yemen announced a firm stance regarding the recent developments in Hadramawt Governorate, affirming its readiness to respond directly and immediately to any military actions that violate de-escalation efforts. This announcement was made by the coalition's official spokesperson, Major General Turki al-Maliki, who explained that this step comes in response to a formal request from the head of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, Dr. Rashad al-Alimi.
Al-Maliki indicated that the intervention primarily aims to protect civilians in Hadramawt from the serious violations recently documented, which have been attributed to armed elements affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council. The coalition stressed the necessity of handing over the camps to the "Homeland Shield" forces and enabling the local authority to perform its duties without hindrance, within the framework of joint Saudi-Emirati efforts to unify ranks and end internal tensions.
The context of the tension and efforts to unify the Yemeni ranks
These developments come at a sensitive time in the Yemeni crisis, as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates seek to bridge the divide between anti-Houthi factions under the umbrella of the Presidential Leadership Council. The "Homeland Shield" forces, mentioned in the statement, are a newly formed military unit aimed at strengthening state authority and establishing stability, independent of political and partisan rivalries. The integration of military formations and the unification of military command are among the most important provisions of the Riyadh Agreement and the Yemeni-Yemeni consultations sponsored by the Gulf Cooperation Council.
The strategic importance of Hadhramaut Governorate
Hadhramaut Governorate holds immense strategic and geopolitical importance, not only because it is the largest governorate in Yemen by area, but also because of its significant economic and social weight. The governorate is a strategic reserve of oil and mineral resources, in addition to its vital geographical location. Therefore, any instability there not only affects the local level, but its repercussions extend to threaten regional security and hinder the comprehensive peace efforts led by the coalition and the international community.
A call for restraint and prioritizing the national interest
Major General Al-Maliki concluded his statement by reaffirming the Joint Forces Command's unwavering support for the legitimate Yemeni government, urging all political and military factions to uphold their national responsibility, exercise restraint, and respond positively to efforts aimed at achieving peaceful solutions. He emphasized that protecting civilian lives remains the Coalition's top priority, and that any attempt to drag the region into a secondary military conflict will be met with a firm response to ensure the success of political and humanitarian efforts in Yemen.
