Several pro-Saudi officials depart Aden as security tensions escalate
ADEN, July 11 (YPA) – Several pro-Saudi ministers and military commanders left Aden International Airport on Friday, traveling to Cairo and Riyadh, as security tensions intensified in the city following the mobilization of armed tribal groups from Radfan, Dhalea, and Al-Subaiha districts.
The mass departure of pro-Saudi officials came as armed tribesmen mobilized at the strategic Al-Anad Triangle in Lahj province, protesting claims that Saudi-backed authorities intend to release detainees from Al-Mansoura Prison in response to Riyadh’s demands.
Saudi Arabia has sent major military reinforcements from the “Dera Al-Watan” and “Emergency Forces” to Aden, deploying hundreds of armored vehicles and troops at key entry points to the city.
Authorities have further tightened security around Al-Mansoura Prison and Maashiq Palace, as security forces expanded their presence throughout nearby areas.
Meanwhile, activists urged Al-Mansoura residents to avoid “Prison Street” and surrounding areas, remain indoors, and limit movement amid rising tensions and fears of possible clashes.
Observers believe the armed tribal mobilization, involving dozens of fighters affiliated with factions loyal to the “dissolved” Southern Transitional Council (STC), seeks to impose a new reality in Aden, as the city remains on high alert amid deepening divisions and continued security instability.
The armed tribal movement is part of a growing popular escalation calling for an end to Saudi influence over Aden and other areas under its control. This stance has intensified since the dissolution of the STC in January, which was followed by rising security tensions in southern and eastern Yemen.
The current unrest traces back to December, following a Saudi airstrike targeting STC-affiliated factions in Wadi Hadramout that killed and wounded hundreds of recruits, most of them from Radfan districts. The incident continues to be a key factor driving the current tribal mobilization.
@E.Y.M