Riyadh, Jan 2, 2026 — The Saudi Arabia–led military coalition has announced the deployment of naval forces in the Arabian Sea, citing efforts to counter smuggling operations and strengthen maritime surveillance in the region.
In a statement released on Friday, the coalition said the naval deployment is part of an anti-smuggling operation and is intended to enhance monitoring of sea routes to ensure regional security and stability. The announcement comes at a time of escalating tensions in Yemen, although the coalition did not explicitly link the move to the ongoing conflict.
Coalition spokesperson Brigadier General Turki Al-Maliki said in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that the decision aims to increase maritime oversight and take necessary measures to maintain security in the Arabian Sea.
Meanwhile, developments on the ground in Yemen indicate a significant shift in the balance of power. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government has captured its largest military base from separatist forces in Hadramout province, according to local authorities.
Hadramout Governor Mabkhout bin Madi said government forces took control of the Al-Khasha military base, which housed the 37th Brigade and is considered the largest base in the province. He noted that a “peaceful operation” had been announced earlier on Friday, but hours later Saudi-led coalition airstrikes targeted the area.
At least seven people were killed and 20 others injured in the airstrikes, according to local sources.
The conflict in Yemen remains deeply complex, with multiple armed factions, including the Southern Transitional Council (STC), vying for control amid ongoing regional involvement.
