Riyadh moves Al-Amaliqa forces to Aden in response to STC-related escalation
ADEN, May 05 (YPA) – Saudi military forces deployed large reinforcements to the city of Aden on Tuesday, amid rising tensions and indications of a possible escalation following calls from leaders of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) for expanded protests against what they describe as “Saudi guardianship” over the city.
According to informed sources, directives were issued by the Saudi military representative in Aden, Falah Al-Shahrani, ordering the redeployment of units from Brigade 11 Giants from their positions in Shabwa to Aden, with the stated aim of reinforcing security and maintaining stability.
The sources added that the deployment of these forces, rather than other local formations such as the Dera al-Watan units, reflects a broader Saudi approach to managing security arrangements in the south, particularly following recent political developments involving the restructuring of STC-linked formations and the appointment of new leadership aligned with Riyadh.
Tensions have been further heightened by expectations of renewed protests in Aden, coinciding with the return of government officials to Aden Ma’ashiq Palace, against a backdrop of worsening public services, particularly electricity shortages, and a rise in security incidents including targeted killings.
Security concerns have also increased following announcements by the so-called “Southern Ground Forces” and other STC-affiliated factions expressing readiness to respond to recent remarks by the STC’s head Aidarous al-Zubaidi.
On Tuesday, reports indicated that pro-government forces entered al-Uroud Square in the Khor-Maksar district of Aden, where they removed STC banners and images, an incident that escalated tensions after clashes reportedly occurred between security personnel and demonstrators aligned with the STC.
This follows a statement issued by the STC earlier in the week reaffirming its position as the sole representative of the southern cause and rejecting the formation of alternative southern political entities.
The STC also criticized Saudi policies in the region, accusing them of turning Aden and southern provinces into a “platform for competing agendas,” marking a further deterioration in relations between the two sides.
AA