RIYADH, Dec. 27 (Xinhua) -- The spokesperson of the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, Turki Al Maliki, announced Saturday that any military movements undermining de-escalation efforts would be dealt with to protect civilians, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Al Maliki said the measures were taken in response to a request from Rashad Al-Alimi, chairman of Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), for immediate action to protect civilians in Hadramout Governorate following humanitarian violations by armed elements affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council (STC).

He said that coalition forces would respond directly and promptly to any military movements that violate de-escalation efforts, with the aim of safeguarding civilian lives.

Al Maliki added that the actions form part of ongoing joint efforts by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to reduce tensions, ensure the withdrawal of STC forces, hand over military camps to the Nation's Shield Forces, a Saudi-backed Yemeni force, and enable local authorities to carry out their duties.

He reaffirmed the coalition's continued support for Yemen's legitimate government and urged all parties to uphold their national responsibilities, exercise restraint, and engage with peaceful settlement efforts to maintain security and stability.

Tensions in Yemen escalated on Dec. 3, when STC forces took control of Hadramout following clashes with pro-government units. The STC also criticized the PLC for failing to launch what it described as a serious campaign against the Houthi group. ■