Yemen: Yemeni authorities evacuated 179 foreign tourists stranded on Socotra Island to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, following unrest in southern Yemen. The operation was coordinated with Yemenia Airways, local authorities, Saudi Arabia, and accredited embassies in Yemen, as stated by the Foreign Ministry.

According to Anadolu Agency - English, the first Yemenia Airways flight transported the foreign tourists stranded on Socotra Island due to recent events. A total of 179 passengers departed on the initial flight to Jeddah, with further arrangements underway to evacuate the remaining tourists to ensure their safety and facilitate their return to their destinations.

Local media reported that over 400 foreign tourists remain stranded on Socotra after flights were suspended amid the unrest in southern Yemen. Yemeni government forces recaptured the eastern provinces of Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra from Southern Transitional Council (STC) fighters early this week. The regions, accounting for nearly half of Yemen's territory, were seized by STC fighters last month. Government troops are also advancing towards Aden, the country's temporary capital.

Last week, Saudi Arabia accused the United Arab Emirates of pushing STC forces to engage in military operations near the kingdom's southern border in Hadhramaut and Mahra, an accusation denied by Abu Dhabi. The STC claims marginalization by successive Yemeni governments and calls for secession, a claim rejected by Yemeni authorities who affirm their commitment to national unity.