In a significant development, Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, headed by President Rashad al-Alimi, has relieved Defense Minister Mohsen Muhammad al-Daari of his duties. The move coincides with the deployment of government-affiliated ‘Nation Shield’ forces in Aden, following the withdrawal of Southern Transitional Council (STC) troops.<\/p>\n
According to reports, President al-Alimi issued a decree dismissing al-Daari and referring him to retirement. Simultaneously, ‘Nation Shield’ forces announced their arrival in Aden, stating their mission is to bolster security and stability in the port city.<\/p>\n
The ‘Nation Shield’ media center emphasized that the deployment was conducted according to a well-organized plan, maintaining the highest levels of discipline and readiness<\/em>, and in full coordination with relevant authorities. This underscores the forces’ commitment to their national responsibilities.<\/p>\n President al-Alimi lauded the successful and peaceful handover of military camps in Hadramout, al-Mahra, and other southern governorates. He described the handover as a turning point, deterring any attempts to militarize political life. <\/p>\n During a meeting with the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, al-Alimi reassured the international community about the gains made through this operation, which he said progressed smoothly to the interim capital, Aden, in coordination with the Saudi-led coalition. He added that extending state authority over all governorates under the Yemeni government’s control would create a safe and smooth passage for humanitarian aid, reducing restrictions hindering the work of relief organizations.<\/p>\n In related news, ‘Nation Shield’ forces in al-Mahra governorate, eastern Yemen, announced they had taken over securing the ‘Shahan’ border crossing with Oman. This follows their control of vital facilities in al-Ghaydah, the governorate’s capital, after the withdrawal of STC forces. The Shahan crossing is a crucial land route for trade and the movement of people.<\/p>\n Tensions escalated in December 2025<\/em>, leading to military clashes between the STC and government forces, supported by the Saudi-led coalition, in several eastern and southern governorates. Earlier that month, STC forces had seized control of Hadramout.<\/p>\n