The Inside Story Podcast What are Saudi Arabia's plans in southern Yemen?
Jan 10, 2026
Khaled Batarfi, a Saudi political analyst, shares insights on Riyadh's strategy concerning southern Yemen's dynamics. Farea al-Muslimi discusses the Southern Transitional Council's loss of power and risks of instability from shifting alliances. Matthew Bryza delves into the STC's frustrations and the complex motivations behind their actions. They explore public sentiment on independence versus unity, and the challenges facing negotiations in Riyadh, stressing the importance of security and the role of external influences.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
STC's Uncoordinated Power Grab
- The STC overreached by trying to create a southern state without coordinating with Saudi Arabia and other stakeholders.
- Khaled Batarfi says that Saudi-backed Yemeni forces, not Saudi troops, reclaimed territory with coalition support.
Marginalising The STC Risks Instability
- Matthew Bryza argues the STC's move was driven by frustration with the weak Presidential Leadership Council.
- He warns sidelining the STC from national roadmaps risks long-term destabilisation and vulnerability to the Houthis.
Saudi Role Framed As Protector, Not Combatant
- Khaled Batarfi frames Saudi action as setting a deadline and supporting Yemeni troops to restore control, not direct Saudi combat.
- He presents the Arabian coalition as a protector role rather than an occupying force.