US 'concerned' by recent events in southern Yemen

Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomes Saudi Arabian and Emirati leadership supporting Yemen’s sovereignty and regional security

Southern forces patrol during a rally calling for South Yemen's independence, in the southern port city of Aden on December 25. EPA

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday said he was concerned about the situation in south-eastern Yemen.

He also praised Emirati and Saudi Arabian leaders for their diplomatic leadership.

Yemen's Southern Transitional Council (STC) has taken control of Hadhramaut and Mahra from pro-government forces in an escalation in recent weeks.

“The United States is concerned by recent events in south-eastern Yemen. We urge restraint and continued diplomacy, with a view to reaching a lasting solution,” Mr Rubio said on X.

“We are grateful for the diplomatic leadership of our partners, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and remain supportive of all efforts to advance our shared security interests.”

Amr Al Bidh, a foreign affairs special representative for the STC, told The National in a statement on Friday that armed groups operating “outside the law launched multiple ambushes targeting the Hadhrami Elite Forces in eastern Hadhramaut, particularly in the Ghail bin Yamin area,”

One of the ambushes, Mr Al Bidh said, was carried out in participation with “armed elements affiliated with Al Qaeda” along other groups.

Two soldiers were killed and 12 others were injured in the attack, he said.

Mr Al Bidh said Hadhrami Elite Forces responded “successfully” regaining control of the area.

Also on Friday, the UAE welcomed Saudi's Arabia's efforts to act in the best interests of Yemen's people, after escalating tension between the STC and the ruling Presidential Leadership Council.

“The United Arab Emirates welcomed the brotherly efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to support security and stability in the Republic of Yemen, and commended its role in serving the interests of the Yemeni people and fulfilling their legitimate aspirations for stability and prosperity,” the Foreign Ministry said.