The Saudi Arabia-led coalition in Yemen has announced a large-scale military operation targeting southern regions of the country, with a particular focus on the strategic port city of Mukalla in Hadhramaut Governorate and its surrounding areas. Citizens in the designated zones have been urged to evacuate immediately to ensure their safety, according to a statement released on Tuesday by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
The coalition has indicated that the offensive is primarily aimed at curbing the military activities of the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) and restoring security for civilian populations. During the operation, residents have been warned to take necessary precautions to protect their lives and property, and the coalition has stressed that the advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Although Saudi-led operations against Houthi rebels began in Yemen in 2015, the dynamics in southern Yemen have shifted significantly in December 2025. The UAE-backed STC seized extensive territories in southern Yemen, expelling Saudi-supported government forces from the strategic city of Aden. They have also established control over key areas in Hadhramaut and Al-Mahrah, escalating tensions in the region.
Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council Chairman, Rashad al-Alimi, has called for urgent intervention by the Saudi-led coalition. He has accused the STC armed forces of committing human rights violations and mistreating civilians in Hadhramaut, warning of an increasing humanitarian crisis.
Analysts suggest that this military operation could play a crucial role in restoring political stability in southern Yemen. However, the coalition faces significant challenges in safeguarding civilians and preventing further humanitarian fallout. International observers are closely monitoring the situation, while human rights organisations have urged all parties to prioritise civilian safety.
The key events in December 2025 are summarised below:
| Date | Event | Location | Controlling Faction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early December 2025 | Power shift in southern Yemen | Southern Yemen | STC |
| December 2025 | Capture of Aden city | Aden | STC |
| December 2025 | Control of Hadhramaut & Al-Mahrah | Hadhramaut, Al-Mahrah | STC |
| 30 December 2025 | Saudi-led coalition launches military operation | Mukalla, Hadhramaut & surrounding areas | Saudi-led Coalition |
The unfolding offensive has heightened international concern, with global humanitarian agencies calling for immediate measures to protect civilians and mitigate the crisis. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the coalition can stabilise southern Yemen while preventing a full-scale humanitarian emergency.