Tensions rise in Mukalla as Saudi-backed factions crack down on STC rally

MUKALLA, July 08 (YPA) – The city of Mukalla, the capital of Yemen’s eastern coastal province of Hadhramaut, witnessed heightened security measures amid escalating tensions on Tuesday after Saudi-backed factions launched a crackdown on supporters of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) in a bid to prevent a protest against the Saudi presence.

Local sources said Saudi-backed factions fired live ammunition heavily to disperse demonstrators who responded to the protest call issued by the UAE-backed STC.

No casualties have been reported.

Sources also reported that the security forces launched an arrest campaign targeting a number of protesters and organizers.

Heavy security deployments and military checkpoints were set up at the entrances and exits of Mukalla to block demonstrators from reaching the city, but large groups of STC supporters managed to reach China Bridge in central Mukalla.

They chanted slogans denouncing the Saudi military presence in the province, the sources added.

The developments come as Riyadh adopts a firm stance toward the STC’s activities in Hadhramaut, while showing a more tolerant approach toward the group’s activities in Aden.

According to observers, this reflects the hidden struggle for influence in southern and eastern Yemen.

@E.Y.M