Saudi Arabia announces its intention to impose mineral resources agreement on Yemen

RIYADH, Feb. 11 (YPA) – The Riyadh announcement, tasking the Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources to coordinate with its backed government to sign a “Memorandum of Understanding” (MoU) for technical and geological cooperation, has sparked a wave of resentment and suspicion among Yemeni political and human rights circles.

Observers consider the timing of this move—coming just days after the formation of the new government led by Shaya al-Zindani and its swearing-in ceremony in Riyadh—as an indicator of Saudi efforts to legitimize the control over Yemeni sovereign resources in the eastern and southern regions.

These Saudi maneuvers coincide with its exclusive field control over resource-rich areas, raising fears of violations affecting national sovereignty.

Human rights activists emphasized that the Riyadh-formed government lacks the legal standing to sign agreements concerning national wealth without popular will.

Experts believe that “technical and geological cooperation” may serve as a cover for the organized looting of precious minerals in Yemeni provinces under Saudi-led coalition control.

YPA