DZWatch Exclusive: Simultaneous actions are underway in Yemen, signaling a concerted effort to re-establish state authority across key regions, from Hadramout to Socotra. These movements, according to sources within the Yemeni government, are intended to bolster the influence of legitimate state institutions in areas where their presence has been diminished.
The Governor of Hadramout recently indicated a strategic focus on securing full control of Shabwa province. This initiative is expected to extend to other governorates, including Abyan and potentially Aden, as part of a broader campaign to reinforce the authority of state entities.
In a related development, the resumption of air travel from Socotra Island marks a significant turning point. For the first time, direct flights are operating between Socotra and Jeddah via Yemenia Airways. Previously, air travel to and from Socotra was limited to domestic routes or private charters catering primarily to tourists during periods of instability.
This development holds both political and security implications. It suggests the integration of Socotra Island into the broader strategy of reasserting state control, even though comprehensive changes on the island are still in progress. The renewed air connectivity serves as a further indication of the expanding scope of these operations.
These developments follow the internationally recognised government of Yemen regaining control of over half the country, including Hadramout and al-Mahra, which the Southern Transitional Council held since early December.
These rapid developments follow accusations that the UAE is supporting the STC’s military operations in Hadramout and al-Mahra, near Saudi Arabia’s southern border. On December 30, the coalition forces reportedly bombed an arms shipment coming from the UAE in Hadramout. The head of the Presidential Leadership Council of Yemen, Rashad al-Alimi, decided to cancel the joint defence agreement with the UAE, which leads to the withdrawal of its forces within 24 hours.
