Yemen’s leaders meet in Saudi Arabia after defeat of UAE-backed group

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by Associated PressJanuary 18, 2026 at 04:53 PM

AI Summary

short article 2 min

Yemeni political leaders convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for their first public meeting since the disbandment of a UAE-backed southern separatist group. The meeting, held on Sunday, focused on the future of southern Yemen and preceded a Saudi-sponsored conference. This comes after weeks of clashes and Saudi Arabia's intervention against the separatists, who had seized territory in December. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces have since regained control of Hadramout and Mahra provinces. The situation highlights the complex dynamics of Yemen's civil war, involving sectarian and tribal issues, regional power struggles, and strained relations within the Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthi rebels. The politicians present expressed a unified southern desire for a just and secure resolution.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Aden 30% People’s Republic of South Yemen 35% Mahra 40% Sanaa 50% Hadramout ×255% Riyadh 60% Iran ×265% United Arab Emirates ×270% Southern Transitional Council ×280% Houthi ×285% Saudi Arabia ×690% Yemen ×695%

Keywords

yemen civil war 100% southern separatists 90% saudi arabia 80% uae 70% houthi rebels 70% riyadh meeting 60% southern yemen 60% saudi-led coalition 50% political solution 40%