Yemen's southern forces will face further challenges

Significance

The statement coincided with direct talks in the capital, Sana’a, on April 8-13, between Saudi Arabia and the Shia rebel Huthi movement which controls much of the north. Such meetings aim at a renewed ceasefire and direct Yemeni-Yemeni discussions.

Impacts

• The STC may lose credibility and influence internationally if it maintains a rigid stance on gaining an independent state.
• The Huthis will exploit the STC’s position to undermine the Presidential Leadership Council in future negotiations.
• A renewed ceasefire may help mobilise funding for the UN Humanitarian Response Plan, but financing will still be far below needs.
• Saudi Arabia and the UAE will leverage their financial weight to influence local Yemeni politics in the long term.