Pan-Islamic bloc reaffirms support for Yemen’s legitimacy, regional security

By Mohammad Sio

ISTANBUL (AA) – The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) reaffirmed its support on Wednesday for Yemen’s internationally recognized government and warned that actions undermining the country’s unity pose a threat to regional security.

OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha said in a statement that the organization maintains “a firm and principled position” in support of Yemen, its sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and rejects any acts that “cause prejudice to its constitutional legitimacy and national institutions.”

He reiterated the bloc’s full backing for Yemeni legitimacy, represented by the chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad al-Alimi, and the internationally recognized government. He stressed the importance of preserving and strengthening state institutions to help realize Yemenis’ aspirations for security, stability and development.

The secretary-general also condemned “any movement or practices by the Southern Transitional Council,” saying they pose a “direct threat” to Yemen’s unity, undermine peace efforts and prolong the conflict.

“Any breach of Yemen's security and stability is a threat to peace, security, and stability in the region,” he said.

The statement came a day after sharp tensions flared between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over Yemen, following an airstrike by the Arab coalition targeting two ships at the port of Mukalla.

Amid the fast-moving dispute, the Yemeni presidential council announced the cancellation of a joint defense agreement with the UAE and ordered all Emirati forces to leave Yemen within 24 hours.

The Saudi Foreign Ministry accused the UAE of pushing the STC forces to carry out military operations along the kingdom’s southern border in Hadramout and Mahra. The UAE rejected what it called “allegations” and stressed its commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security.

The Emirati Defense Ministry later said it had completed the mission of its remaining counterterrorism teams in Yemen, adding that it ended its military presence in 2019 as part of the Saudi-led coalition.

The STC has taken control of Hadramout and Mahra early this month. The two governorates together make up nearly half of Yemen’s land area.