UAE deploys 2,500 fighters to Hadramout, raising fears of armed escalation

HADRAMOUT, April 16 (YPA) -The United Arab Emirates has reportedly brought in over 2,500 armed fighters from its affiliated factions in three southern governorates over the past few days, sparking warnings of an imminent armed escalation in the coastal districts of Hadramout, located on the Arabian Sea in eastern Yemen.

A statement issued by the Hadramout Inclusive Conference—a Saudi-backed political body—condemned the UAE’s move to deploy militants from Aden, Lahj, and Dhalea to Hadramout’s coast.

The statement described the deployment as an attempt to undermine the will of Hadramout’s people following the recent announcement of self-rule, and to impose a political agenda by force of arms.

The conference accused the UAE of destabilizing the region and dragging Hadramout into conflict and chaos by escalating tensions.

It also criticized the complicit stance of local authorities and security and military officials in the so-called “Second Military Region” for allowing the militants’ entry last Friday.

The statement warned that these dangerous developments threaten the social fabric of Hadhramaut’s people.
Furthermore, the statement highlighted the contradiction in the UAE’s actions, noting that while it claims to support the Hadhrami Elite Forces, it is simultaneously attempting to impose its own political agenda against the will of Hadramout’s residents.

The Hadramout Inclusive Conference called on residents of the governorate, both at home and abroad, to unite against this plan and raise public awareness.

It also urged the leadership of the Saudi-led coalition and Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council to swiftly intervene, halt what it described as “security sabotage,” and work toward returning these armed groups to their regions of origin in order to preserve peace and stability in Hadhramaut.

@E.Y.M