The Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen issued a direct warning on Saturday, stating it would take immediate action against any military movements by southern separatists that threaten de-escalation efforts in the contested eastern province of Hadramout. The warning comes amid rising tensions and follows a request from Yemen’s internationally recognized government for the coalition to protect civilians from alleged violations by groups affiliated with the secessionist Southern Transitional Council (STC).
The coalition's spokesman, Brigadier General Turki al-Maliki, stated that any moves violating peace efforts "will be dealt with directly and immediately" to protect civilians. This public warning aligns with earlier demands from Saudi Arabia, which has repeatedly called for the STC to withdraw its forces "peacefully" from Hadramout and the neighboring province of al-Mahra, which they seized earlier this month. Saudi Arabia emphasized these military moves were made without coordination with the Yemeni government or the coalition and have caused an "unjustified escalation".
The current crisis stems from a major military offensive the STC launched on December 2, 2025. The STC, which seeks independence for southern Yemen and is backed by the United Arab Emirates, rapidly captured key areas. Their forces now control most of the eight southern governorates that once constituted South Yemen, including strategically vital and resource-rich areas. The STC has rejected Saudi withdrawal calls, vowing to continue securing the eastern provinces.
The situation has drawn urgent international concern. The United States has publicly urged restraint and continued diplomacy. Regionally, the conflict tests the alliance between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who support rival factions within the anti-Houthi bloc. Reports indicate Saudi Arabia has already conducted airstrikes on STC positions in Hadramout, and Yemeni military officials warn that the government's request could trigger more coalition strikes if the STC does not withdraw.
The standoff exposes deep fractures within the coalition fighting the Houthi rebels, who control northern Yemen including the capital, Sanaa. The STC and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government have been uneasy allies in this war for years. While integrated into the government's Presidential Leadership Council, the STC continues to pursue its separatist goals, leading to recurring disputes over power and resources. This internal rift threatens to open a new front in Yemen's complex civil war, diverting focus from the conflict with the Houthis and risking broader regional instability.