Saudi Arabia has effectively consolidated full control over southern Yemen, marking a decisive shift in the country’s long-running conflict and reshaping the balance of power on the Arabian Peninsula.

Developments on the ground indicate that Saudi-backed forces now exercise overriding authority across key southern governorates, sidelining rival factions and bringing security, political and administrative structures firmly under Riyadh’s influence.

The consolidation follows a series of coordinated military, political and financial moves that have reduced the autonomy of local armed groups and constrained the role of competing regional actors.

Saudi Arabia has reinforced its presence through aligned security forces, control of critical infrastructure and direct involvement in governance arrangements, giving it decisive leverage over ports, airports and major urban centres in the south.

This shift has also altered the position of the internationally recognised Yemeni government and southern separatist elements, both of which now operate within tighter limits set by Saudi authorities.

While Riyadh has presented its actions as necessary to stabilise the region, counter hostile militias and prevent further fragmentation, the new reality reflects a more centralised command structure dominated by Saudi strategic priorities.

Regionally, the move strengthens Saudi Arabia’s hand as diplomatic efforts continue to manage the broader Yemen conflict and contain threats along its southern border.

It also reduces the operational space for hostile armed groups, including those aligned with Iran, while giving Riyadh greater influence over any future political settlement.

With southern Yemen now firmly under Saudi control, attention is likely to turn to how this authority is exercised and whether it can translate into lasting security and political order in one of the Middle East’s most fragile theatres.