Saudi Acknowledges Stalling of “Southern Dialogue” in Riyadh… Divisions Freeze Process Before It Begins
Failure to form preparatory committee a month after delegations arrived… Hadramout proposes option of region or independent state
NYN | Reports and Analyses
Saudi writer Mohammed Al Amer has acknowledged the faltering of efforts led by Riyadh to convene the “Southern–Southern Dialogue,” amid escalating divisions among southern factions and their failure so far to agree on the formation of a preparatory committee for the talks.
Al Amer explained that the southern political scene is experiencing a state of “mutual rejection.” The Southern Transitional Council is holding firmly to its position, while the Southern Movement rejects what it describes as the STC’s “dominance.” Meanwhile, the pro-unity current insists on opposing the hegemony of any single faction over another, leading to a freeze in the political process before it has effectively begun.
Deep Disputes… Freeze Before Official Sessions
According to Al Amer, divisions within the southern camp are no longer merely tactical disagreements but reflect a struggle over influence and political representation. This has obstructed even the initial organizational steps for the dialogue, foremost among them the formation of a preparatory committee.
Hadramout… The Most Complex Knot in the Dialogue
The Saudi writer noted that the position of Hadramout represents one of the most complicated obstacles facing the process. He pointed out that Hadrami forces have declared a clear stance distancing themselves from broader southern rivalries.
He stated that Hadrami factions are committed to two options “with no third alternative”:
Transforming into an autonomous region within a federal Yemen
Or declaring a fully independent state
This position reflects their refusal to fall under any unified southern umbrella that does not guarantee Hadramout’s distinct political and economic status.
A Month in Riyadh Without Announced Sessions
The impasse comes more than a month after Saudi Arabia announced it would host the dialogue and after senior delegations—including leaders from the Southern Transitional Council—arrived in Riyadh, yet no official sessions or public events have been convened to date.
