Pro-coalition government flees Aden as tensions with STC escalate

ADEN, Dec. 09 (YPA) – Members of government loyal to the Saudi-led coalition, urgently departed the city of Aden following the withdrawal of Saudi forces. This development has escalated security and economic tensions in Yemen’s southern and eastern governorates, particularly between Saudi Arabia and the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC).

The tension between Saudi Arabia and the STC arose against a backdrop of STC forces’ movements and their control over Hadramout and Mahra governorates in eastern Yemen.

The head of pro-coalition Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad Al-Alimi, and Prime Minister Salem Saleh bin Braik had already left for Riyadh two days ago.

Al-Alimi directed severe criticism at the STC and demanded the withdrawal of its forces from Hadramout and Mahra, in alignment with the Saudi position.

Informed sources said that Riyadh is considering retaliatory measures against the STC after the latter refused to comply with its pressure to withdraw its forces from Hadramout and Mahra.

Economic crises could potentially be seen in STC-held areas, according to the sources, as the Kingdom may withdraw economic support in response to the STC’s defiance.

@E.Y.M