Maldives Reaffirms Support for Saudi-Backed Yemeni Government Amid Rising Tensions

The Government of Maldives has reaffirmed its support for the internationally recognized legitimate Government of Yemen, the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), backed by Saudi Arabia. This statement comes amidst escalating tensions in Yemen, particularly due to the military offensive launched by the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), which seeks an independent state in south Yemen. The STC recently took control of two provinces, Hadramawt and Mahra, bordering Saudi Arabia, raising concerns for the kingdom's national security. The Maldives Foreign Ministry emphasized its support for the PLC and welcomed Saudi Arabia's initiative to host comprehensive talks in Riyadh, aimed at advancing a peaceful resolution through dialogue. Yemen’s decade-long civil war has fragmented the country, with various factions, including the Iran-backed Houthi militia, competing for power. The establishment of the PLC in April 2022 aimed to unify anti-Houthi factions and restore government functions.