By Amir Muhammad Khan
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry has invited all southern Yemeni factions to Riyadh to discuss a “just solution” to the southern issue, following a request from Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council president, Rashad al-Alimi.
The ministry said the conference aims to develop a comprehensive roadmap that addresses the legitimate aspirations of the southern Yemeni people. Officials have yet to announce exact dates or the full list of delegates.
The invitation comes amid heightened tensions, with the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) recently seizing territory in Hadramaut and Mahra. Saudi Arabia has warned that these actions pose a direct threat to its national security and regional stability. Earlier this week, a coalition supporting Yemen’s government carried out airstrikes targeting a shipment of weapons and vehicles destined for southern separatist forces at the port of Mukalla.
Saudi authorities emphasised that negotiations, rather than armed confrontation, remain the only viable means to resolve the southern issue. On Tuesday, Gulf and Arab states voiced support for Yemen’s internationally recognised government.
Meanwhile, Pakistan expressed concern over the resurgence of violence in Yemen. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Islamabad reaffirmed its support for efforts to preserve Yemen’s unity and territorial integrity, and reiterated its commitment to the security of Saudi Arabia.
