Saudi Arabia deploys hundreds of ‘takfiri’ elements to Yemen frontlines amid rising tensions

SANAA, Sept. 23 (YPA) – Saudi Arabia has deployed hundreds of extremist ‘takfiri’ elements, including foreign combatants, to key contact lines and frontlines in Yemen’s Lahj, Jawf, and rural Taiz governorates, according to multiple sources.

A source reported that Salafi leader Yahya Al-Hajouri directed the dispatch of approximately 1,500 individuals associated with the “Dar Al-Hadith” centers in Lahj, Aden, and Sayoun to join hostilities against Sanaa forces under sectarian banners.

Factions aligned with Riyadh reportedly facilitated the arming and equipping of these fighters, who belong to a network of over 29 centers across southern governorates operating with direct Saudi financial and logistical backing.

According to the source, these operational movements aim to escalate sectarian and regional tensions following 12 years of conflict involving a 17-nation coalition that includes the United States.

The military shifts follow public controversy over Saudi allegations claiming Sanaa forces targeted holy sites in Mecca—claims that drew widespread local rejection and prompted mass public demonstrations in Yemen under the slogan “Our Souls for Mecca” to refute the narrative.

Concurrently, unconfirmed reports indicate Riyadh has formally requested Syrian leader ‘Ahmed al-Sharaa’ (Abu Mohammad al-Golani) to supply thousands of fighters for transfer to border training camps in Sharorah prior to deployment along the frontlines against Sanaa forces.

YPA