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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/strong><\/p>\n 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.<\/em><\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n The situation in Hadramaut remains fluid and highly contested, with potentially far-reaching consequences for the stability of Yemen.<\/strong> DZWatch will continue to monitor developments closely.<\/p>\n