Yemen’s Hadramout province is preparing to launch a peaceful operation aimed at regaining control of key military positions, according to the region’s Saudi-backed governor. Governor Salem Ahmed Saeed al-Khunbashi said on Friday that the move would target only military sites and is not a declaration of war, emphasizing the intention to restore security and order rather than escalate conflict.
The announcement comes amid growing tensions between Yemen’s international allies in the Gulf. Saudi Arabia supports the Hadramout governor and the internationally recognized government, while the UAE backs the Southern Transitional Council (STC), which seized parts of southern Yemen last month. This division has intensified a rift between the two Gulf powers, bringing their strategic differences into public view.
The Saudi-backed government also confirmed that Governor al-Khunbashi has been granted full command of the “Homeland Shield” forces in Hadramout, giving him complete military, security, and administrative authority. Officials say the operation is a measured effort to regain control of military sites without initiating wider hostilities.
Meanwhile, the UAE announced plans to withdraw its remaining forces from Yemen, following a Saudi-backed demand for the pullout within 24 hours—one of the sharpest public disputes between the two Gulf nations in recent history. The STC has yet to respond directly to the Hadramout governor’s announcement.
Aden Airport Remains Closed Amid Diplomatic Tensions
The ongoing tensions have also affected civilian travel. Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed Al-Jaber, criticized STC leader Aidarus Al-Zubaidi for refusing to grant landing permission to a Saudi delegation at Aden International Airport. The airport, the primary gateway for areas outside Houthi control, remained closed from Thursday into Friday as both sides exchanged blame for the disruption.
“The Kingdom made all efforts to resolve the escalation with the STC, but faced continued rejection and stubbornness from Aidarus Al-Zubaidi,” Al-Jaber said. The STC, in turn, accused Saudi Arabia of imposing an air blockade, requiring all flights to go via Saudi territory for additional checks.
As Yemen continues to navigate these complex political dynamics, the focus for civilians remains on stability and access, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue amid regional rivalries.
