Saudi-led coalition orders immediate evacuation ahead of 'military operation' in Yemen

Riyadh: The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen announced Tuesday that it will launch a "military operation" in the southern port of Mukalla, ordering all civilians to evacuate the area immediately to avoid the coming offensive. 

The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported the directive on behalf of the coalition, stating that "the evacuation is to protect civilians during the execution of a military operation."

The warning marks a major escalation following weeks of rising tension between Saudi-backed forces and UAE-aligned separatist groups. The coalition had previously signalled that it would provide military support to Yemen's internationally recognised government should separatist forces continue to challenge state authority.

Mukalla, a critical strategic hub on the Gulf of Aden, has become a flashpoint in the splintering conflict. Military officials in Riyadh emphasised that the pending operation is intended to restore government control over the port and surrounding territories.

Regional observers noted that the evacuation order suggests an imminent use of heavy artillery or airstrikes. The United Nations and other international bodies have previously called for restraint in the region to prevent further humanitarian catastrophe in the war-torn nation.

With inputs from AFP