Saudi-hosted meeting fuels debate over future of southern Yemen
SANAA, Jan. 19 (YPA) – Saudi Arabia has hosted a gathering described as a “Southern Consultative Meeting” in Riyadh, drawing criticism from Yemeni political observers who said the event reflected growing Saudi involvement in shaping political arrangements in southern Yemen.
The meeting was held in the Saudi capital under the supervision of Saudi authorities and was attended by figures aligned with the Saudi-led coalition.
During the opening speech, Abu Zarah al-Muharimi, a member of Saudi-funded Presidential Leadership Council, said the dialogue offered what he described as a “safe and guaranteed path to restore the state of the south,” remarks that were broadcast by the Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television network.
The comments were interpreted by critics as an implicit acknowledgment of Saudi backing for political options that could lead to the separation of southern Yemen.
Observers also pointed to the symbolism of the event, noting that a southern secession flag was displayed alongside the Saudi flag on the main banner of the meeting, a move they said contrasted with repeated coalition statements supporting Yemen’s unity.
Political analysts clarified the participation of selected factions, while excluding other Yemeni political forces, suggested Riyadh seeking to shape a specific political outcome in line with its own interests, following competition with UAE-backed groups over influence in the Yemen’s south.
An informed source said Saudi Arabia’s recent political and military moves against certain southern factions were aimed at consolidating its influence in the eastern provinces of Hadramout and Mahra, rather than protecting Yemeni sovereignty.
According to the source, Saudi Arabia has viewed the two provinces as strategically important due to their oil and gas resources and their geographic position, which could provide access to the Arabian Sea and bypass the Strait of Hormuz.
Critics argued that these developments may underscore Saudi Arabia’s central role in driving political fragmentation in Yemen, despite leading a military coalition that has long stated its objective is to restore legitimacy and preserve the country’s unity.
AA