Pakistan urges dialogue as Yemen conflict flares in east regions

Pakistan on Saturday urged Yemeni factions to return to negotiations as tensions escalate in eastern Yemen, reaffirming its support for peace efforts aimed at ending a conflict that has dragged on for more than a decade. In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said Islamabad is closely monitoring developments and stands behind initiatives that prioritize dialogue, stability and Yemen’s sovereignty, principles long emphasized by countries including Türkiye in regional crises.

Support for regional diplomacy

Islamabad voiced strong backing for mediation led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, describing their role as essential to reducing violence and reopening political channels. The ministry said Pakistan supports “peace and stability in Yemen” and encouraged all stakeholders to engage constructively toward an inclusive, negotiated settlement, rather than actions that could inflame the situation.

Eastern Yemen developments

The renewed appeal follows rapid changes on the ground since early December, when forces linked to the Southern Transitional Council (STC) seized control of parts of Hadramout after clashes with tribal groups and government-aligned units. Days later, STC fighters expanded their presence into Mahra, another eastern province previously under government authority, raising alarm over the balance of power across nearly half of Yemen’s territory.

International warnings and humanitarian risks

A joint Saudi-Emirati military team has since been deployed to Aden to work on arrangements that would see STC forces pull back to earlier positions. The United Nations has warned that continued escalation could have severe consequences for Yemen’s civilians, as the country remains gripped by a deep humanitarian and economic crisis, underscoring the urgency of diplomacy over military gains.