The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen has issued a firm warning to southern separatist forces, saying it is prepared to intervene militarily if they fail to withdraw from recently contested territories in the country’s east.

The message, delivered after consultations with Yemen’s internationally recognised leadership, reflects mounting concern that renewed infighting within the anti-Houthi camp could unravel fragile security arrangements and threaten civilians.

Coalition officials said the warning was directed at armed units linked to the Southern Transitional Council, which has expanded its presence in provinces including Hadramout and al-Mahra.

The coalition stressed that its priority remains stability, de-escalation and the protection of Yemen’s population, but made clear that unilateral military moves undermining those goals would be met with decisive action.

Saudi Arabia, which leads the coalition backing Yemen’s recognised government, has repeatedly emphasised the need for dialogue among allied factions.

Officials underscored that disputes over local control should be resolved politically rather than through force, warning that internal clashes only benefit hostile actors and prolong Yemen’s suffering.

The Southern Transitional Council, which seeks greater autonomy or independence for southern Yemen and enjoys backing from the United Arab Emirates, has defended its deployments as necessary for local security.

However, the developments have exposed underlying tensions within the broader coalition formed to counter the Iran-aligned Houthi movement, which still controls large parts of northern Yemen.

Regional and international actors are closely monitoring the situation, urging restraint and renewed negotiations to prevent a new escalation in a conflict that has already lasted more than a decade.

The coalition’s warning signals a determination to prevent further fragmentation on the ground while pressing all sides to prioritise stability and a political path forward.