Coalition Strikes Target Yemeni Port Amid Rising Tensions

The ongoing conflict in Yemen has escalated with a recent military operation led by the Saudi coalition against what they claim to be foreign military support at Mukalla port. This targeted strike comes just days after warnings directed at the Southern Transitional Council (STC), signaling a significant escalation in the already fraught situation in the region.

Targeting Military Support

The Saudi-led coalition executed a “limited military operation” early on Tuesday, focusing on weapons and vehicles that had allegedly been unloaded at the Mukalla port, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). This move followed increased tensions between the coalition and the STC, a group that has been gaining ground in the Yemen conflict.

According to coalition spokesperson Turki al-Malki, two ships arrived at the port over the weekend without obtaining necessary authorizations. These vessels reportedly disabled their tracking systems and unloaded significant amounts of military equipment, allegedly intended to bolster the STC’s efforts.

Responses and Directives

In the aftermath of the airstrike, Rashad al-Alimi, the Saudi-backed head of Yemen’s presidential council, issued a stern warning that forces from the United Arab Emirates must exit Yemen within 24 hours, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

The coalition detailed that the operation was necessary due to threats posed by the newly unloaded military assets. They emphasized that the strike targeted the unloading location, and they reported no casualties or collateral damage, asserting compliance with international humanitarian regulations.

Escalating Regional Conflict

The timing of this operation is crucial, given the STC’s recent offensive against Yemeni government forces, which are backed by the coalition. Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman Al Saud urged STC troops to “peacefully hand over” control of two regional governorates back to the government. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for restraint and a push for diplomacy in order to achieve a long-lasting resolution to the conflict.

The State of Yemen

Initially part of the Saudi coalition’s efforts to combat the Houthis since 2015, the STC has shifted its focus towards self-governance in southern Yemen. With UAE support, the STC has maintained control over significant territories outside Houthi influence, particularly following a power-sharing deal under Saudi auspices. However, recent weeks have seen the group expanding its control at the expense of other governmental forces.

The conflict continues to unfold, with implications for both regional stability and international relations. The involvement of various factions, coupled with external military support, adds layers of complexity to the conflict as all parties seek to assert their influence amidst ongoing turmoil.