Riyadh (South24 center)

Southern Transitional Council (STC) President and Vice President of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), Aidrous Al-Zubaidi, has called for international assistance to protect vital infrastructure in South Yemen, including oil export terminals, from Houthi attacks.

The appeal came during his Sunday meeting with Catherine Corm-Kammoun, France's ambassador to Yemen, held in the Saudi capital Riyadh. Discussions focused on the economic crisis triggered by suspended oil exports due to Houthi assaults and measures to secure the export hubs in Hadramout and Shabwa governorates.

Al-Zubaidi emphasized that supporting Yemen's economy and shielding critical infrastructure from attacks must be an international priority. The talks also addressed peace efforts, with the STC leader reiterating his rejection of negotiations with the Houthi militia who have been globally designated as a terrorist organization.

The French ambassador reaffirmed her country's unwavering commitment to supporting international efforts aimed at securing peace in Yemen. She also affirmed her country’s commitment to continuing the humanitarian and development projects across Yemen.

Later that day, Al-Zubaidi met with Jonathan Peccia, the U.S. Chargé d'Affaires to Yemen. Their discussion centered on the Houthi’s military escalation, including troop mobilizations and ongoing violations against civilians. An STC statement noted, Al-Zubaidi said that such actions undermine peace prospects and exacerbate humanitarian suffering. He stressed that any lasting solution must address South Yemen's political demands as part of a comprehensive settlement.

In a separate meeting, with South Korea's Ambassador Do Bong-kae, the STC leader praised Seoul’s humanitarian role, particularly in the field of water, health, and education projects through KOICA (Korean International Cooperation Agency). Al-Zubaidi expressed hopes for expanded cooperation in capacity-building and youth training programs.

On Monday (June 30), Al-Zubaidi received Indian Ambassador Suhel Ajaz Khan, with both sides reviewing the historic Yemen-India ties and exploring enhanced security-economic collaboration.

Yemen's crude oil exports from Hadramout and Shabwa ports have been halted since October 2022 following Houthi drone strikes targeting key terminals like Al-Dabba and Al-Nushayma. The attacks have paralyzed export operations, forcing foreign firms to suspend activities.

The shutdown has cost the Yemen government billions in lost revenue, previously its primary income source, worsening the economic collapse and delaying public sector salaries, besides crippling essential service delivery.

The diplomatic push underscores the Southern leader’s attempts to emphasize on port security as both a national and international economic imperative.