Yemeni Interior Minister: Security deployment in Hadramawt with the Homeland Shield
In an exclusive statement to Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, Yemeni Interior Minister Major General Ibrahim Haidan confirmed the commencement of a large-scale security deployment plan in Hadramawt Governorate, Yemen's largest governorate, in direct and joint coordination with the "Homeland Shield" forces. This step comes within the framework of government efforts aimed at strengthening stability, extending state authority in liberated areas, and unifying security and military decision-making under the umbrella of the Presidential Leadership Council.
Security coordination to enhance stability
The minister explained that the new security arrangements aim to close security gaps and secure vital roads and strategic areas in the valley and desert, noting that cooperation with the "Homeland Shield" forces represents a strong support for the official security establishment. This move comes in response to the urgent need to unify military and security efforts to confront current challenges, whether those related to combating terrorist organizations or maintaining internal security and preventing any disturbances that could threaten social peace in the important oil-rich province.
Background on the "Homeland Shield" forces
It is worth noting that the "Homeland Shield" forces are military formations established by a decision of the Presidential Leadership Council Chairman, Dr. Rashad al-Alimi, to serve as a strategic reserve force directly under the command of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. These forces were formed to create a military balance and contribute to maintaining security and stability in the liberated governorates, remaining independent of political and partisan rivalries. Their involvement in the security file in Hadramawt is a significant step towards strengthening the presence of the state and its sovereign institutions.
The strategic importance of Hadhramaut Governorate
Hadhramaut Governorate holds exceptional importance in the Yemeni landscape, not only because it comprises a third of the country's area, but also because of its long coastline, extensive land borders with Saudi Arabia, and its oil and mineral wealth. Hadhramaut has long been a focal point of local and regional interest, as its stability is key to the stability of the eastern and southern governorates in general. The governorate faces numerous challenges, including attempts by some parties to draw it into the conflict, as well as the threat posed by remnants of extremist groups seeking to exploit the vast desert areas for refuge.
Significance of timing and expected impact
This announcement comes at a sensitive time in the Yemeni crisis, as the legitimate government, supported by the Saudi-led coalition, seeks to consolidate its internal ranks and unify forces to confront the Houthi militias or advance the peace process. This security deployment is expected to contribute to:
- Strengthening trust between the various Hadrami components through the presence of forces that enjoy presidential consensus.
- Securing commercial and oil transport routes, which will have a positive impact on the national economy.
- Curbing the influence of outlaw groups and controlling border crossings more effectively.
This move reflects the seriousness of the Presidential Leadership Council and the Ministry of Interior in assuming their responsibilities towards the liberated governorates, and sends a message of reassurance to the international and regional community that the government is capable of managing the security file efficiently and competently.
