Saudi-Yemen Relations: Saudi Arabia's role and efforts to be involved as a peacemaker or conciliator in the Yemen Civil War

Abstract

This major paper examines Saudi Arabia's evolving role as a mediator and participant in the Yemen civil war, focusing on the three key diplomatic efforts: the National Dialogue Conference (2014), the Stockholm Agreement (2018), and the Riyadh Agreement (2019). By analyzing these case studies through the framework of conflict resolution theories, particularly Jacob Berkovich's typologies of mediation and intervention, this research explores whether Saudi Arabia's actions are driven by a genuine effort to foster peace or by prestigious regional interests, notably countering Iranian influence. The study reveals that while initial initiatives aimed at inclusive dialogue and peacebuilding, Saudi mediation increasingly shifted towards active participation in regional power projection, often motivated by broader geopolitical objectives rather than Yemen's long-term stability. Perceptions Of legitimacy from Yemeni factions and the international community significantly impacted the efficiency of these efforts, with resistance from groups like the Houthis and skepticism about Saudi motives undermining neutrality. The major paper argues that Saudi Arabia's interventionist approach reflects its desire to maintain regional dominance and influence over Yemen rather than solely promoting democratic transitioning or stability. This analysis underscores A broader trend of regional powers assuming mediation roles amidst the decline of traditional international mediators, highlighting the changing landscape of conflict resolution in the Middle East. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and scholars into the complexities of external mediation and entrenched conflicts and the implications for regional security and diplomacy.