Yemen government retakes strategic military sites in Hadhramaut
Forces loyal to Yemen's internationally recognized government have reclaimed critical military installations in the eastern Hadhramaut province following a withdrawal by separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) fighters. The developments mark a significant shift in control over the resource-rich region, with broader implications for the ongoing civil war and regional stability.
In a significant military development, Yemeni government forces have assumed control of key strategic sites across the eastern province of Hadhramaut after forces aligned with the secessionist Southern Transitional Council (STC) withdrew on Friday. The takeover, involving major camps and headquarters, reshapes the balance of power in a province that accounts for nearly half of Yemen's territory and shares a long border with Saudi Arabia.
The seized installations
According to state media reports, the government's Nation’s Shield Forces captured the strategically vital Brigade 37 camp located north of the province. Simultaneously, STC-linked units evacuated the headquarters of the First Military Region in Seiyun city—a site they had occupied just last month—as well as the Al-Safaq checkpoint in the Wadi region. Local residents reportedly entered the Seiyun headquarters immediately following the STC's departure.
Official statements and objectives
Hadhramaut Governor Salem Al-Khanbashi framed the military action, dubbed "Taking Over the Camps," as a necessary step to secure weapons and preempt chaos. He asserted the operation was not a declaration of war against the STC. "This operation does not target any political or social component, does not target civilians, and does not affect the lives or interests of citizens in any way," Al-Khanbashi stated, describing it as a preventive measure to safeguard provincial security.
Advertisement
Regional tensions and context
The reshuffling of military control occurs amidst heightened regional friction. Saudi Arabia recently accused the United Arab Emirates, a nominal coalition ally, of pushing STC forces to operate along the kingdom's southern border—a charge Abu Dhabi denies. Furthermore, Saudi-led coalition aircraft reportedly struck STC loyalists in Hadhramaut on Friday after they allegedly ambushed government troops. The STC, which seeks southern Yemen's secession citing marginalization, has not commented on the withdrawals. For regional actors like Türkiye, which emphasizes territorial integrity, such internal fractures in Yemen underscore the profound challenges to achieving a unified and stable political resolution to the long-running conflict.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.