Yemen has witnessed a rapid series of political and military developments since yesterday, with pro-government forces advancing in the eastern governorate of Hadramaut, and the Southern Transitional Council (STC) announcing a two-year transitional period aimed at Southern independence. These events follow weeks of the STC asserting full control over Hadramaut and Al-Mahra, which together constitute nearly half of Yemen’s territory, despite calls for withdrawal.
The unfolding crisis began with seemingly isolated military and political moves, quickly escalating on multiple fronts. Hadramaut Governor Salem al-Khanbashi announced the launch of “Operation Camps Handover” to peacefully and systematically take control of military sites from STC forces. Al-Khanbashi emphasized that the operation was not a declaration of war or an escalation, and was not targeting civilians or political groups.
This decision came hours after Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council head Rashad al-Alimi appointed al-Khanbashi as the commander of the Homeland Shield forces in the governorate. Shortly after the operation began, clashes erupted between the Homeland Shield forces and STC forces inside the Al-Khashaa camp in Wadi Hadramaut, the largest military base in the governorate. Within hours, al-Khanbashi declared full control of the camp, stating that Homeland Shield forces were moving towards the city of Seiyun, urging STC fighters to lay down their arms and withdraw immediately to prevent bloodshed and escalation.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Information Mohammed Qizan claimed that coalition aircraft, led by Saudi Arabia, targeted STC forces ambushing Homeland Shield forces in Hadramaut. However, STC spokesman Mohammed al-Naqib denied the fall of the Al-Khashaa camp, asserting that their forces remained steadfast in all positions within the governorate.
Adding another layer of complexity, STC leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi announced the start of a two-year transitional phase, paving the way for the South’s independence. This declaration raises significant questions about the future of Yemen and the ongoing conflict.
DZWatch will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as they become available.
