Amid intensifying hostilities in Yemen’s prolonged civil war, Turkey has positioned itself as a potential mediator to facilitate dialogue between warring factions. The diplomatic initiative comes as fighting between Saudi-backed government forces and UAE-supported separatists has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 80 fighters from the Southern Transitional Council (STC) killed since recent clashes began.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan communicated directly with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Sunday, expressing Ankara’s readiness to contribute to reconciliation efforts. The presidential office stated that Turkey is closely monitoring Yemeni developments and emphasized the critical importance of preserving Yemen’s territorial integrity.
This diplomatic overture follows Saudi Arabia’s invitation to southern factions for negotiations in Riyadh—a proposal that received positive reception from the STC. The willingness to engage in dialogue suggests all parties may be considering negotiated settlements as the ultimate solution to the current hostilities.
The recent escalation began when government forces, supported by Saudi Arabia, launched operations to reclaim territories seized by the STC in Hadramout Governorate. Saudi-backed National Shield Forces successfully retook the strategic port city of Mukalla, with Associated Press footage showing local residents welcoming government troops as they patrolled streets in armored vehicles.
Despite these military developments, tensions remain high. Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council has accused the STC of blockading Aden port and warned of taking “all necessary measures” after recapturing eastern territories. The STC denied these allegations, though the exchange demonstrates persistent hostility despite diplomatic proposals.
The current conflict escalation traces to last month when STC forces captured substantial portions of Hadramout and Al-Mahrah governorates—regions containing Yemen’s remaining energy resources and bordering Saudi Arabia. In response, Riyadh intensified its military support for the internationally recognized government, conducting extensive air and ground operations.
Yemen’s civil war, ongoing since Houthi forces captured Sanaa in 2014, has been further complicated by the STC’s formation in 2017. The separatist group seeks self-determination for southern Yemen and has maintained its sovereignty agenda despite joining the coalition government in 2022, resulting in recurring disputes over power-sharing and resource control.