RIYADH – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has issued a strong warning to the United Arab Emirates regarding its activities in Yemen, describing them as “extremely dangerous” and a threat to Saudi national security.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement released earlier today, expressed its deep concern over the UAE’s support for separatist movements in southern Yemen. The statement specifically cited the UAE’s alleged backing of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in carrying out military operations near Saudi Arabia’s southern border.
“These actions represent a direct threat to the national security of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as to the security and stability of the Republic of Yemen and the broader region,” the statement read. The ministry emphasized that military operations in Hadramaut and Al Mahrah provinces further exacerbate the situation and undermine the goals of the coalition supporting the legitimate government in Yemen.
Saudi Arabia reiterated that any threat to its security is a red line and that it will take all necessary measures to protect its interests. The Kingdom demanded that the UAE withdraw its military forces from Yemen within 24 hours and cease all military and financial support to any party involved in the conflict.
The statement reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the security and stability of Yemen and its support for the legitimate government. It called for addressing the southern issue through dialogue within a comprehensive political solution involving all Yemenis, including the STC. The negotiating table remains the only viable path to resolving the crises in Yemen, the ministry asserted.
Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war for over a decade. A Saudi-led coalition intervened in 2015 to support the internationally recognized government against the Houthi rebels. While a truce was reached in April 2022, recent developments threaten to reignite military tensions within the country.
