DZWatch has obtained footage showing armored vehicles belonging to the Southern Transitional Council (STC) engulfed in flames at the Al-Khasha camp in Hadramaut governorate, eastern Yemen. This follows the announcement of a military operation by the Yemeni government to take control of military camps in the region, signaling a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
The release of this video coincides with claims by Hadramaut Governor Salem al-Khanbashi that ‘Nation Shield’ forces have seized control of Brigade 37 camp in Al-Khasha, reportedly the largest military base in the governorate. This information was also carried by official Yemeni television.
In response, the STC’s Second Military Region Command issued a statement asserting that its military locations would remain under its control and that no handover would occur. This defiant stance sets the stage for further potential clashes.
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the involvement of external forces. Media outlets aligned with the STC alleged that Saudi-led coalition aircraft conducted airstrikes against government forces. Conversely, ‘Nation Shield’ forces claimed that their air power targeted STC gatherings in the Al-Khasha area of Hadramaut. These allegations are currently unconfirmed.
Earlier on Friday, Governor al-Khanbashi announced the launch of an operation to peacefully take control of military sites from STC forces, following his appointment by Presidential Leadership Council head Rashad al-Alimi to lead ‘Nation Shield’ forces in the governorate. He emphasized that the operation was not a declaration of war or an escalation but rather a precautionary measure to protect security and prevent chaos.
The STC, which advocates for the secession of southern Yemen, initiated surprise military movements in early December, claiming control over Hadramaut and Al-Mahra. They have since rejected local and regional calls for withdrawal, further complicating the already volatile situation.
The situation in Hadramaut remains fluid and highly contested, with potentially far-reaching consequences for the stability of Yemen. DZWatch will continue to monitor developments closely.
