Yemen Requests UAE to Permit Faraj Al-Bahsani's Travel to Riyadh
The Yemeni presidency has formally requested that the United Arab Emirates permit Faraj Al-Bahsani, a member of the Presidential Leadership Council, to leave its territory for Riyadh. This move aims to facilitate his direct engagement with the council's leadership and to participate in Saudi Arabia's efforts to address the ongoing crisis in Yemen. The presidency described this step as essential to "eliminate any existing ambiguity or confusion."
A source from the presidency's office indicated that there has been a significant communication breakdown with Al-Bahsani in recent weeks. His ongoing absence from his constitutional duties, without any explanation, has raised concerns, particularly as the state is intensifying efforts to manage escalating tensions in the Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra governorates while ensuring civilian safety and maintaining order.
The source further noted that Al-Bahsani's posts on the social media platform "X" have suggested an inclination towards further escalation in these regions, diverging from the state's framework. His stance has been inconsistent regarding Saudi Arabia's invitation to participate in consultations in Riyadh. Initially, Al-Bahsani expressed willingness to attend a meeting in mid-December 2025 but later cited travel issues as a reason for his absence, despite later endorsing a conference on southern issues. His communication has since become increasingly difficult.
The statement emphasized that Al-Bahsani's ongoing absence, along with his endorsement of unilateral actions outside the state's purview and his obstruction of council meetings, presents a troubling situation that cannot be allowed to persist.
The source reiterated that the current circumstances necessitate clarity and a strong commitment to the governing principles of the transitional phase, aiming to ensure unity and mobilize resources to confront challenges, restore state institutions, and alleviate the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the Houthi group.
