Hadramout — The Governor of Hadramout confirmed on Tuesday that PetroMasila, Yemen’s largest oil company, has suspended production operations as a precautionary measure following the sudden entry of armed men affiliated with the Hadramout Tribal Alliance into its facilities.

According to the governor’s statement, the company halted pumping and production activities to ensure the safety of workers and infrastructure, after tribal fighters unexpectedly gained access to installations in the governorate’s oil-rich areas.

The incident comes amid rising tensions between the Southern Armed Forces and tribal groups, who have recently escalated demands for greater control over Hadramout’s resources. 

The siege of oil facilities has raised fears of economic disruption, as PetroMasila accounts for a significant share of Yemen’s limited oil exports.

Local officials warned that the intrusion represents a serious threat to national energy security, stressing that any prolonged shutdown could deepen Yemen’s already fragile economic crisis. 

They urged tribal leaders to withdraw armed elements and engage in dialogue to avoid further escalation.

Observers note that Hadramout’s oil sector has long been a focal point of contention, with tribal alliances pressing for resource management reforms and accusing authorities of marginalizing local communities. 

The latest developments risk igniting wider conflict in the valley and desert regions, where military mobilizations are already underway.

International monitors expressed concern that the disruption of PetroMasila’s operations could undermine peace efforts and regional stability, given Hadramout’s strategic role in Yemen’s economy and its location along vital energy corridors.