Yemen's Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council has removed Defence Minister Mohsen al-Daeri, state news agency Saba reported on Jan. 8. The dismissal comes amid a fast-moving crisis triggered last month when UAE-backed separatists swept through southern provinces, including the port city of Aden. Their advance brought clashes closer to the Saudi border and heightened regional tensions. The council has not yet announced a successor.
Yemen's Saudi-Backed Presidential Council Dismisses Defence Minister as Southern Separatists Advance
Minister of Defence of Yemen Mohsen Al-Daeri gestures as freed prisoners are greeted upon their arrival at Aden Airport, amid a prisoner swap between two sides in Yemen's conflict, in Aden, Yemen April 14, 2023. REUTERS/Fawaz Salman
Jan 8 (Reuters) - Yemen's Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council has dismissed Defence Minister Mohsen al-Daeri from the internationally recognised government, the state news agency Saba reported on Thursday.
The dismissal comes amid a rapidly unfolding security crisis that began last month, when United Arab Emirates-backed separatists swept through parts of southern Yemen, including the strategic port city of Aden. The separatists' advance brought fighting and territorial gains that approached the Saudi border, intensifying regional concerns.
The removal of al-Daeri appears to be a high-profile leadership shake-up as the internationally recognised government seeks to respond to the challenge posed by the separatist offensive. The council did not immediately give detailed reasons for the dismissal, and Saba's report did not say who would replace him.
Analysts say the developments could complicate efforts to stabilise the country and affect relationships among regional backers. The situation remains fluid, with humanitarian and security implications for civilians in affected areas.
Reporting by Enas Alashray in Cairo; Reuters
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