Iraq urges de-escalation in Yemen, calls for stability

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Iraq on Friday urged de-escalation in Yemen, stressing the need to protect the country’s security and stability amid rising tensions.

"Regional and international efforts will contribute to supporting the path toward stability in Yemen, in a manner that enhances opportunities for de-escalation and creates conducive conditions for reaching sustainable solutions," Iraq's foreign ministry said.

Instability has intensified in recent days due to escalating disputes between the Southern Transitional Council (STC) and Yemen’s Saudi-backed, internationally recognised government.

Although the STC is part of the Saudi-led coalition fighting the Iran-aligned Houthis since 2015, it also seeks an independent southern state. Earlier this week, the group expanded military operations in Hadramout and al-Mahra, border provinces with Saudi Arabia, triggering a sharp escalation.

Saudi Arabia has accused the United Arab Emirates, another coalition member, of backing and arming the STC, claims Abu Dhabi denies.

While the UAE has agreed to withdraw its troops following demands from Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, the STC has refused to retreat from the two provinces.

The foreign ministry of Iraq also stressed the importance of regional and international efforts to support stability in Yemen, promote de-escalation, and create conditions for sustainable solutions.

Tensions have already disrupted daily life, with flights from Aden International Airport suspended on Thursday.

Despite Saudi-brokered power-sharing deals and the STC’s inclusion in the leadership council in 2022, clashes over territory and resources persist, raising concerns that the latest escalation could further undermine prospects for a political settlement.