Southern Yemen Tensions Rise as Separatists Accuse Saudi Arabia of Airstrikes

Fresh Strains in Yemen’s Fragmented Conflict

Tensions in Yemen’s east have escalated after southern separatists accused Saudi Arabia of carrying out airstrikes against their positions, exposing widening rifts within the coalition opposing the Iran-backed Houthi movement . The episode underscores how internal rivalries, rather than frontline fighting alone, continue to destabilise the war-torn country.

STC Allegations Against Saudi Arabia

The Southern Transitional Council (STC) , which enjoys backing from the United Arab Emirates , claimed that Saudi fighter jets targeted its forces in Hadramout province . According to the group, the strikes followed clashes with unidentified armed groups and resulted in the deaths of two STC fighters, with several others injured. While Riyadh has not officially confirmed the operation, regional reports suggest the action was meant to pressure the STC to halt territorial advances.

Contest for Control in Eastern Yemen

The STC has recently expanded its footprint in parts of Hadramout and Mahra , areas where Saudi-supported National Shield Forces are also active. The separatists say their operations were aimed at curbing smuggling networks and apprehending wanted individuals. Local witnesses reported damaged vehicles after the alleged air raids, reportedly belonging to STC-linked units. Saudi-aligned sources warned that further military action could follow if separatist forces refuse to withdraw.

Regional Rivalries Within the Coalition

The accusations came a day after Saudi Arabia publicly urged Emirati-backed forces to pull back from contested areas. Yemen’s internationally recognised government has reiterated that Saudi military intervention remains an option if dialogue fails. With an estimated 15,000 Saudi-backed troops positioned near the border, Riyadh has signalled readiness to escalate. The episode highlights growing Saudi–UAE rivalry over influence in southern Yemen and along the Red Sea corridor .

Broader Implications for Peace Efforts

Yemen’s conflict, which began after the Houthi takeover of Sanaa in 2014 and escalated with Saudi-led intervention in 2015, has killed more than 150,000 people and triggered one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Renewed infighting in the south threatens fragile de-escalation efforts. The United States and other international actors have urged restraint, warning that internal conflict could derail prospects for a political settlement.

Important Facts for Exams

• Southern Transitional Council seeks autonomy for southern Yemen

• Saudi Arabia and the UAE back rival factions within Yemen

• Yemen war began after Houthis seized Sanaa in 2014

• Conflict has caused massive humanitarian devastation