Tourists Stranded on Socotra Island Due to Mainland Tensions

Tourists Affected on Socotra Island

Approximately 400 tourists are stranded on the Yemeni island of Socotra after flights were suspended due to clashes on the mainland between Saudi Arabia-backed government forces and separatists with ties to the United Arab Emirates. In recent days, flights to and from Yemen have been largely restricted due to intense fighting between rival armed factions grouped under Yemen's fractured government, headquartered in the port city of Aden.

Local Officials' Statements

Yahya bin Afrar, the vice-governor for culture and tourism in Socotra, stated that "more than 400 foreign tourists" are stranded after their flights were "suspended." An anonymous local official confirmed that 416 people from various nationalities are blocked on the island, including "over 60 Russians." An anonymous Western diplomat mentioned that British, French, and American citizens are also among the tourists trapped.

Security Situation

The security situation has deteriorated, with Poland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirming that Polish tourists are also stranded. Flights to Socotra operated by an Emirati airline have been suspended until Tuesday. "Socotra is located in an extremely unstable region where an armed conflict has been ongoing for years. Currently, the security situation has worsened due to escalating military operations, and the airspace has been closed," the ministry stated.

Calls for Help

Stranded tourists, many of whom came to celebrate New Year, are now trying to contact their embassies for evacuation assistance. Their embassies have reached out to the Saudi and Yemeni governments to request their evacuation.

Restoring Order

The civil war in Yemen entered a new phase last month when UAE-backed separatists expanded their presence in southeastern Yemen with the aim of establishing an independent state. This week, Saudi Arabia-backed "Patriot Shield" forces recaptured oil-rich governorates of Hadramout and al-Mahra from the STC rebels. Authorities are focusing on restoring essential services such as electricity, water, and health, stated Hadramout governor Salem al-Khanbashi.