Saudi-backed Homeland Shield Forces Deploy Eastwards Towards al-Khashaea
On December 23, 2025, Saudi-backed Homeland Shield Forces (HSF) initiated a military deployment eastward from al-Abr in the Hadhramaut region of eastern Yemen, advancing towards the strategically significant town of al-Khashaea. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in Yemen, as the HSF has successfully captured key locations along the N5 highway.
Key Details
The Homeland Shield Forces have reportedly taken control of two critical areas, Eukban and al-Wahid, located along the N5 highway, which serves as a vital transportation route in the region. According to Yemeni frontline journalist Abdullah al-Juaidi, the HSF is now advancing towards al-Khashaea, which is not only a strategic town but also the site of the Saudi-backed 37th Brigade military base.
Al-Khashaea"s geographical significance is underscored by its position at the crossroads of the N5 and R536 highways, making it a pivotal point for military operations and logistics in the area. The ongoing negotiations between the involved parties have yet to yield a resolution, as the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) has so far refused to withdraw from the region despite the advancing HSF forces.
In a show of military strength, Saudi jets were observed flying at low altitudes over the area earlier in the day. This maneuver appears to be an intimidation tactic aimed at the STC-backed forces, signaling Saudi Arabia"s commitment to supporting the HSF in their operations.
Background
The conflict in Yemen has been ongoing since 2014, involving multiple factions, including the internationally recognized Yemeni government, Houthi rebels, and various local militias. The involvement of regional powers, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, has further complicated the situation. The STC, which seeks greater autonomy for southern Yemen, has been a key player in the conflict, often clashing with forces loyal to the Yemeni government.
The recent advancements by the HSF come amid a backdrop of ongoing negotiations and attempts at peace, including a recent agreement between the Yemeni government and Houthi militia to exchange nearly 3,000 prisoners, as reported in previous reports. However, the situation remains fluid, with military actions continuing to unfold.
What"s Next
The future implications of the HSF"s deployment towards al-Khashaea remain uncertain. The refusal of the STC to withdraw from the area may lead to increased military confrontations, potentially escalating the conflict further. The ongoing negotiations will be crucial in determining whether a peaceful resolution can be achieved or if military actions will continue to dominate the landscape in Yemen.
As the situation develops, the international community will be closely monitoring the actions of both the HSF and the STC, as well as the responses from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The strategic importance of al-Khashaea and the surrounding areas means that any changes in control could have significant ramifications for the broader conflict in Yemen.
