Tensions rise in Aden ahead of planned rallies in support of STC

ADEN, Jan. 10 (YPA) -Tensions are rising in Yemen’s southern port city of Aden as supporters of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) prepare for mass demonstrations, in response to what they describe as systematic military and political targeting of the council by Saudi Arabia.

The planned protests come amid growing anger among the STC’s grassroots supporters over pressure from regional actors, mainly Saudi Arabia, which demonstrators view as attempts to roll back gains made by southern forces and impose a political reality that falls short of their aspirations.

Protest organizers said the demonstrations aim to reject external pressure and defend the STC’s political and military standing.

Amid this charged atmosphere, fears are mounting over the potential for direct clashes on the ground. Aden’s security authorities have issued strict orders banning all gatherings and demonstrations, citing the need to preserve public order and protect sovereign facilities.

The ban has further inflamed tensions, raising concerns that any attempt to defy it could spark confrontations between protesters and security forces.

Observers said that STC supporters’ determination to go ahead with the protests, despite the ban, underscores a growing divide between local forces and regional priorities.

They added that the protests are intended to reaffirm the STC’s influence on the ground and reject any measures perceived as weakening its military structure or political representation.

As security forces remain on high alert across Aden, with heavy deployments at key entrances and main streets, the situation remains fluid. Local residents are closely watching how events unfold in the coming hours, amid warnings that any clash could further destabilize the already fragile security situation and deepen the political crisis between coalition partners and key forces operating on the ground.

@E.Y.M