Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
Economic expert Wafiq Saleh noted that the relocation of banks’ financial headquarters to Aden came as a result of its status as the interim capital of the Republic of Yemen, which is administered by the internationally recognized legitimate government.
He explained that international and U.S. sanctions imposed on the Houthi group were a key driver behind the move, aimed at ensuring the continued ability of banks and financial institutions to conduct external transactions without obstacles.
Saleh added that the recent escalation of events in Aden and the southern governorates, coupled with growing calls for secession, could negatively affect the city’s standing as a safe and suitable environment for banking and economic activity.
He pointed out that the ongoing confrontation between the legitimate government and the Southern Transitional Council, along with attempts to impose division by force, threatens the future of the banking and financial sector in the region.
Saleh warned that such steps could lead to serious economic repercussions for the southern governorates, including the possibility of international reactions that would deepen economic isolation.
He further cautioned that these developments could expose economic sectors—particularly banks and financial institutions—to the risk of sanctions similar to those imposed on the Houthi group.
