Gulf States Voice Support for Yemen’s Government Amid Rising Regional Tensions
LONDON: Gulf and Arab nations have issued coordinated statements reaffirming their support for Yemen’s internationally recognized government and stressing the importance of regional security, following the withdrawal of Emirati forces from the country.
The diplomatic responses came after air operations by the coalition backing Yemen’s government targeted what was described as a shipment of weapons and military vehicles intended for southern separatist factions. The cargo reportedly arrived at the port of Al-Mukalla aboard vessels originating from the UAE.
In the hours that followed the strikes, Yemen’s Presidential Council Chairman Rashad Al-Alimi publicly called for the withdrawal of Emirati forces from Yemeni territory within a 24-hour timeframe, signaling a sharp escalation in tensions among allies.
Saudi authorities warned that armed groups aligned with the Southern Transitional Council pose a direct risk to the Kingdom’s national security and to wider regional stability, particularly after their recent advances in Yemen’s eastern governorates of Hadramaut and Al-Mahra.
Qatar said it was closely monitoring the situation and reiterated its full support for Yemen’s legitimate government. Doha emphasized the need to preserve Yemen’s unity and protect the interests of its people, while noting that the security of Saudi Arabia and fellow Gulf Cooperation Council members is inseparable from its own national security.
Kuwait echoed these sentiments, affirming its unwavering support for Yemen’s government and underscoring that the stability of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region remains central to its national security. The Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry praised what it described as a responsible and balanced approach taken by regional leaders during the unfolding crisis.
Bahrain, which currently chairs the Gulf Cooperation Council, expressed confidence in the leadership of both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to manage differences constructively within a unified Gulf framework. The kingdom reaffirmed its strong backing for regional and international efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting political settlement in Yemen.
Egypt also weighed in, voicing confidence in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi’s ability to address the situation with restraint and wisdom. Cairo said diplomatic efforts toward a political resolution in Yemen would continue despite the latest escalation.
The coordinated statements reflect growing concern among regional partners over the potential impact of renewed instability in Yemen and the wider implications for Gulf security.
