Yemeni government forces enter Aden, pressuring secessionist council
Military units aligned with Yemen's internationally recognized government have entered the strategic port city of Aden, marking a significant shift in the south's power dynamics. The move comes as the secessionist Southern Transitional Council faces territorial losses and internal political pressure.
Forces loyal to Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council have moved into the southern port of Aden, challenging the authority of the secessionist Southern Transitional Council (STC) in its stronghold. This deployment signals a major effort by the internationally recognized government to reassert control over the south amid a rapidly changing military and political landscape.
Military Advance and Declared Objectives
According to government-aligned military sources, units of the National Shield Forces advanced from the neighboring province of Abyan into Aden's eastern district of Al-Alam. Spokesperson Waddah al-Dubaish described the operation as part of a phased security plan aimed at stabilizing the city and preventing a slide into chaos. He called for public cooperation with the arriving forces, framing the move as a restoration of state authority.
Shrinking Influence of the STC
The entry into Aden follows a series of setbacks for the STC, which has long advocated for southern Yemen's independence. Government forces recently reclaimed the eastern provinces of Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra, and key southern authorities in Abyan, Shabwa, and Lahj have declared support for the government. These developments have reportedly reduced the STC's effective control to Aden, Al-Dhale, and the island of Socotra, significantly narrowing its territorial and political footprint.
Regional Diplomacy and Internal Rifts
The crisis unfolds amid intense Saudi-led diplomatic efforts to maintain cohesion within the anti-Houthi coalition. Saudi Ambassador Mohammed Al Jaber confirmed meetings with an STC delegation in Riyadh, focusing on mending divisions. Tensions escalated following reports that STC leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi defied calls to attend talks in Riyadh and subsequently fled the country—a claim the STC denies. The Yemeni government has since stripped Zubaidi of his council membership and charged him with treason, highlighting a deep internal rift. Further complexity arises from Saudi accusations against the United Arab Emirates of encouraging STC military moves, allegations Abu Dhabi has rejected.
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