Clashes erupt between Islah, Salafi factions in Saudi-Run camps in Najran

ADEN, April 12 (YPA) – Violent clashes erupted on Saturday between armed factions affiliated with Islah Party and Salafi groups inside Saudi-run camps in Najran, involving medium and heavy weapons, with reports of casualties on both sides.

According to local sources, the fighting broke out amid the distribution of financial stipends by Saudi committees to fighters on border fronts, triggering tensions between rival factions competing for influence and control over beneficiary lists.

The clashes involved Islah-linked fighters aligned with al-Hajouri and Salafi elements led by Abdulkarim Al-Sa’i, who recently defected from Islah. Reinforcements from Salafi forces were later deployed, tightening control over parts of the camps.

Sources indicated that the confrontations reflect deeper political rivalries beyond financial disputes, with competing factions seeking to assert dominance amid broader Saudi-backed efforts to reorganize armed groups and reshape influence in southern and eastern Yemen.

AA