Pro-coalition governor survives assassination attempt in Lahj

LAHJ, July 20 (YPA) – Lahj governor in the government loyal to Saudi-led coalition, was subjected on Wednesday to an assassination attempt in Tuban district of Lahj province, southern Yemen.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the unknown gunmen believed to belong to the factions of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), opened fire at the convey of Ahmad al-Turki , who is affiliated with Islah party, in the area of Al-Fayush  in the  district of Tuban.

Observers believe that the attack comes in light of the conflict in the directorate, as tension increased in the western directorate of the province following Saudi arrangements to declare it as an independent region known as “Bab al-Mandab”.

They also said the attack is a threatening message from pro-UAE factions, especially as the two sides intensify their struggles for control of the strategic triangle in the coastal province.

Security authorities in Lahj had not revealed the identity of the attackers and motives of the attack.

Ahmed al-Turki had been subjected to an assassination attempt last November, when gunmen ambushed his motorcade after he left a sport event.

E.M