Saudi-backed forces gather on Yemen border as separatists face pressure to pull back

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Patrick Wintour Diplomatic editorDecember 18, 2025 at 12:05 PM

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long article 4 min

Saudi-backed forces, numbering around 20,000, are amassing on the Yemen border as the Southern Transitional Council (STC) faces pressure to withdraw from recent territorial gains in the Hadramaut governorate. The STC's advance aims to revive demands for a divided Yemen, reminiscent of the pre-1990 era. Saudi Arabia, favoring a unified Yemen, has warned of potential airstrikes against the STC, while the UAE continues to support the separatists, raising the specter of clashes between the two factions. The UN Secretary-General warns that renewed conflict could destabilize the wider region, urging all parties to preserve Yemen's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The STC has so far refused Saudi demands to withdraw its forces from Hadramaut and neighboring governorates.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

António Guterres 40% Southern Transitional Council ×360% United Arab Emirates ×270% Saudi Arabia ×480% Yemen ×580%

Keywords

yemen conflict 100% southern transitional council 90% saudi arabia 80% uae 70% separatists 60% houthi 50% civil war 50% territorial gains 50% red sea 40% airstrikes 40%