Yemen’s Saudi-backed government appoints new prime minister

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by By News AgenciesJanuary 16, 2026 at 07:18 AM

AI Summary

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On January 16, 2026, Yemen's Saudi-backed presidential leadership council accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Salem bin Breik and appointed Foreign Minister Shaya Mohsin al-Zindani as the new prime minister. The move comes as Saudi Arabia seeks to consolidate control over Yemen's presidential body, dismissing a southern separatist member currently in the UAE. This follows recent tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, particularly after the Southern Transitional Council, allegedly backed by the UAE, gained control of areas in southern and eastern Yemen, nearing the Saudi border. Saudi-backed fighters have since largely retaken those areas. The changes highlight the ongoing power dynamics and external influences shaping Yemen's political landscape.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Iran 50% Southern Transitional Council ×260% Shaya Mohsen Zindani ×270% United Arab Emirates 80% Saudi Arabia ×390% Yemen ×4100%

Keywords

yemen 100% saudi arabia 90% prime minister 80% presidential leadership council 70% uae 60% southern separatists 60% political conflict 50% salem bin breik 40% shaya mohsen zindani 40%