Saudi Arabia has intervened in Yemen since 2015, leading a coalition that has conducted over 25,000 airstrikes. This involvement aims to restore the internationally recognized government. Recent escalations highlight Riyadh's focus on southern stability.
Saudi Arabia's Core Objectives in Yemen
Riyadh prioritizes a unified Yemen to secure its southern border. Fragmentation could invite Houthi threats and instability.
According to analysts at CSIS, Saudi views southern separatist advances as direct national security risks. This drives efforts to prevent Yemen's breakup.
Preventing Secession
The Southern Transitional Council seeks independence for southern Yemen. Saudi opposes this, fearing a weakened anti-Houthi front.
In December 2025, STC forces seized oil-rich Hadramawt and al-Mahra provinces. Saudi responded with airstrikes and support for government counteroffensives.
Recent Military and Diplomatic Actions
Saudi forces bombed STC positions in al-Dhale, killing civilians and targeting armored convoys. Coalition spokesman Turki al-Malki called these
limited pre-emptive
strikes to thwart escalation.
The presidential council expelled STC leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi, charging him with treason. This move underscores Riyadh's commitment to unity.
Saudi demanded UAE withdraw forces and halt support for separatists. Abu Dhabi complied, marking a rift between former allies.
Airstrikes and Territorial Gains
Airstrikes hit Mukalla port, destroying alleged UAE weapon shipments. Saudi-backed troops reclaimed Hadramawt, Shabwah, and al-Mahra swiftly.
These operations reversed STC gains, isolating the group in Aden and Lahj. Riyadh now coordinates anti-separatist efforts.
Motivations Behind Saudi Strategy
Saudi seeks to neutralize threats from Houthis and extremists. A divided Yemen might empower Iran-backed groups near its borders.
As per Al-Monitor, Saudi led post-Arab Spring transition plans favoring unity. Secession undermines these long-term goals.
Economic factors play a role too. Hadramawt holds 80% of Yemen's oil reserves, vital for regional stability.
Diplomatic Initiatives
Riyadh invited Yemeni factions for dialogue in early January 2026. This aims to resolve disputes peacefully under a unified framework.
STC welcomed the call but tensions persist after Zubaidi's defiance. Saudi's ultimatum to him highlighted resolve against fragmentation.
Implications for Regional Stability
The Saudi-UAE rift exposes divisions in the Gulf coalition. UAE's separatist backing clashed with Saudi's unity push.
CNN reports this fragmentation benefits Houthis by weakening opponents. Yemen risks further division without resolution.
Saudi's actions align with broader de-escalation efforts. Ending support for proxies could pave way for Houthi negotiations.
Challenges Ahead
Civilian casualties from airstrikes draw criticism. Saudi must balance military force with humanitarian concerns.
STC's independence referendum plans add urgency. Riyadh's strategy focuses on dismantling armed separatism.
Analysts note Saudi's peace through strength approach. This combines pressure with talks for lasting stability.
These developments underscore Saudi Arabia's determination to shape Yemen's future. A unified state remains central to Riyadh's vision for border security and regional peace.
