ABUJA, Jan. 3, 2026 (Naija247news) –
Saudi Arabia has welcomed a request from Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) to host a forum in Riyadh aimed at resolving a deadly rift in the country’s south, which has stoked armed conflict and strained Gulf Arab relations.
In a statement on Saturday, the Saudi foreign ministry called on southern factions to participate in the Riyadh forum to “formulate a comprehensive vision for fair solutions to the southern cause.”
PLC Chairman Rashad al-Alimi urged various groups in southern Yemen to attend, emphasizing the “justness and centrality of the southern cause” and rejecting “any unilateral or exclusionary solutions” to the ongoing conflict, according to Saba News Agency.
The call comes after the Southern Transitional Council (STC) launched a major offensive in Yemen’s Hadramout and al-Mahra provinces, which together account for nearly half of Yemen’s territory. Hadramout, an oil-producing region bordering Saudi Arabia, holds both economic and cultural significance for the kingdom. Its capture by the STC last month heightened Riyadh’s security concerns.
The STC, part of the anti-Houthi coalition, is reported to be seeking an independent state in southern Yemen, putting it at odds with the internationally recognised PLC-led government. Saudi authorities have accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of arming the STC, though the UAE denies the claim and stresses its support for Saudi security.
On Saturday, the UAE issued a statement expressing “deep concern” over the escalation and urged Yemeni parties to “prioritise wisdom and exercise restraint to ensure security and stability in the country.”
David Okoroafor - Geopolitics & Foreign Affairs Editor ✔
David Okafor Geopolitical Editor / Foreign Affairs Editor, Naija247news Media Group David Okafor serves as the Foreign Affairs Editor at Naija247news Media Group, bringing over five years of experience in international journalism. Renowned for his investigative reporting and editorial leadership, he provides readers with in-depth analysis of global politics, economic trends, and major international events. A graduate in International Relations, David has a proven track record of delivering accurate, insightful, and impactful coverage, ensuring that Naija247news remains a trusted source for world affairs. His work has earned him respect across the media industry for clarity, integrity, and commitment to excellence.
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