Military escalation in Hadramout: Saudi airstrikes target “STC” as Tariq Saleh’s forces mobilize

HADRAMOUT, Dec. 31 (YPA) – Hadramout province, eastern Yemen, has witnessed a dramatic shift in the military landscape as Saudi fighter jets launched precision airstrikes targeting the Al-Rabwah camp in Mukalla city.

The strikes coincided with a high-level security meeting of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), led by Talib Barjash, and follow the expiration of a Saudi deadline for the withdrawal of UAE-backed factions.

The airstrikes were reportedly aimed at thwarting STC escalatory plans and disrupting its command structure in Mukalla.

The Saudi-aligned “Hadramout Tribal Alliance” seized control of the strategic Nahb Camp, while continuing to surround other STC-held positions.

Reports indicate that the UAE-funded “Al-Amaliqa Brigades” forces affiliated with Tariq Saleh are moving from the western coast toward eastern Yemen, equipped with advanced weaponry and drones, in a move described as a direct challenge to Saudi directives.

Hadramout Governor Salem al-Khanbashi issued a final warning to the STC to withdraw, urging local personnel to defect and join the Saudi-backed “Dera Al-Watan” forces.

This escalation, marked by intense fighter jet activity, signals the potential for a full-scale military confrontation in Hadramout and Mahra as regional and local powers move to redraw the map of territorial influence.

YPA