Riyadh removes key figures from STC, refers ministers, military leaders to trial
RIYADH-HADRAMOUT, Jan. 07 (YPA) – The Saudi capital, Riyadh, witnessed stormy political and military developments on Wednesday.
These events resulted in a series of decrees targeting several ministers and high-ranking military and security leaders affiliated with the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), reflecting an escalation in regional conflict within Yemeni territories under the Saudi-led coalition control.
Pro-Riyadh media outlets confirmed that an emergency meeting of the Saudi-backed “Presidential Leadership Council” was convened under the chairmanship of Rashad al-Alimi. The meeting was attended by pro-Saudi members Sultan al-Aradah, Abdullah al-Alimi, and Othman Mujali, alongside UAE-aligned members Tariq Saleh and Abdulrahman al-Mahrami.
The meeting reportedly resulted in the decision to “strip Aidarus al-Zubaidi of his membership” in the Council and refer him to the so-called Attorney General on severe charges, including “High Treason.” His current whereabouts and fate remain unknown.
Ministerial Dismissals and Investigations
In a related context, the meeting ousted the Minister of Transport, Abdessalam Humaid, and the Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, Waed Badhib—both STC affiliates. They have been referred for investigation and are set to face trial.
Military Shake-up in Hadramout
On the ground in Hadramout province, the Saudi-aligned Governor, Salem al-Khanbashi, issued a series of decrees removing prominent military and security figures loyal to the STC. These dismissals included Talib Bargash, commander of the Second Military Region, Faisal Badabis, commander of control at the military region, Mutea al-Minhali, director of security for the coastal districts.
All mentioned officials were referred to military trial.
Public Backlash and Legal Controversies
Al-Khanbashi’s decisions sparked a wave of mockery and debate across social media platforms. Activists argued that the governor exceeded his legal authority by issuing dismissal and appointment decrees for high-ranking military positions that fall outside the jurisdiction of local authorities.
Observers described these moves as a new chapter in the regional struggle between Saudi Arabia and the UAE in Yemen.
Reports of Detentions
On another front, STC leadership accused Saudi Arabia of detaining several STC-affiliated politicians immediately upon their arrival at Riyadh Airport. Reports indicate that their phones, personal computers, and passports were confiscated after they had been invited to participate in the so-called “Southern-Southern Dialogue.”
YPA