Saudi-backed forces open fire on pro-STC protests in Aden

ADEN, Feb. 19 (YPA) – Pro-Saudi forces assigned to secure the Maashiq Palace in Aden, southern Yemen, opened fire on demonstrators backing the dissolved Southern Transitional Council (STC), which is supported by the UAE.

Local sources said that tensions escalated in the Crater district of Aden after crowds gathered following breakfast and moved toward the palace’s outer gate, where the Saudi-backed government is based.

According to the sources, palace guards fired live ammunition to disperse the protesters and block their advance, resulting in multiple injuries among demonstrators calling for the Aden government’s removal from Aden.

The protest formed part of a renewed wave of demonstrations in the city, with participants chanting slogans demanding the departure of the current government stationed at the palace.

Protesters also condemned worsening living and public service conditions, salary reductions, and policies pursued by Saudi Arabia regarding the issue of transition.

Meanwhile, the Crater district and other areas of Aden remain under heightened security, with pro-Saudi forces heavily deployed around Maashiq Palace, and the injured protesters transferred to nearby hospitals for treatment.

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