A military delegation comprising representatives from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates has arrived in Aden, Yemen, to engage in critical discussions aimed at defusing escalating tensions in the southern part of the country. This visit follows a significant announcement from the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a prominent separatist group, which has claimed significant control over southern Yemen, according to a government source speaking to Reuters.
The STC has reported asserting its authority in the eastern provinces of Hadhramaut and Mahra, indicating its presence across all eastern regions, including Aden, which is the base for the Saudi-backed and internationally recognized government. These developments highlight the shifting power dynamics in Yemen’s ongoing conflict.
The discussions taking place in Aden will prioritize the review of recent unilateral actions, specifically the withdrawal of external forces deployed in the eastern provinces, as noted by a source from the presidential office to state news agency SABA. These talks are considered a vital move towards stabilizing the region and reinstating collaboration among the various factions in a nation that has grappled with chaos for nearly a decade.
Historically, the STC has benefited from support provided by the United Arab Emirates amid the civil war, which has seen multiple groups contending for influence since the Iran-aligned Houthi movement took control of the capital, Sanaa, in 2014. This intricate backdrop underscores the critical need for diplomatic efforts and negotiations aimed at fostering peace in Yemen’s tumultuous environment.
As the situation unfolds, there is hope that increased cooperation will lead to a more stable and unified Yemen, facilitating progress in the region and potentially addressing the ongoing humanitarian challenges faced by the population. The focus on dialogue may signal a willingness to move toward a more peaceful future.