The Southern Transitional Council’s (STC) recent assertion of control over the governorates of Hadramout and al-Mahra has triggered a significant rift with the internationally recognized Yemeni government, DZWatch has learned. The government has warned that these developments undermine its authority and threaten the unity of security and military decision-making.
Over the past few days, the STC has reportedly managed to seize control of Hadramout and al-Mahra, which together constitute approximately half of Yemen’s geographical area. This was achieved after deploying substantial forces from other governorates, including Aden and Shabwa.
Notably, the STC’s takeover of Hadramout and al-Mahra occurred largely without significant clashes, raising questions about these developments in governorates that had previously remained relatively insulated from the conflict that began nearly a decade ago.
The Yemeni government’s frustration with the STC’s continued control over the two governorates culminated in its departure from the temporary capital, Aden, earlier today, heading to Saudi Arabia. A government source based in Aden told DZWatch that the government left in protest against the STC’s military expansion in Hadramout and al-Mahra.
The source added that the government’s departure from Aden followed three days after the head of the Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad al-Alimi, left the presidential palace in the temporary capital. Subsequently, STC forces reportedly gained control of the palace.
“The situation has become politically and militarily complex, and it is unclear where things are headed,” the source concluded.
Concurrently, flights operated by Yemenia Airways at Aden airport have been suspended, causing considerable disruption for passengers. The Ministry of Transport, aligned with the STC, stated in a press release that the flight suspension at Aden airport was due to unforeseen technical reasons. The statement added that the ministry and aviation authorities had made significant efforts to resume flights.
While some members of the government have departed, an STC spokesperson, Anwar al-Tamimi, stated that others remain in Aden to continue their duties. The situation remains fluid, and DZWatch will continue to monitor developments.
