Saudi warplanes conduct heavy flights over southern Yemen

LAHJ, Jan. 17 (YPA) – Saudi warplanes conduct on Saturday heavy flights over Dhalea and Lahj provinces, south of Yemen, triggering panic and heightened alert among local residents.

Eyewitnesses said that the aircraft flew at low altitudes over the Habilein and Radfan districts of Lahj, extending into the mountainous areas of Yafa and deep into Dhalea.

The unusual pace of the flights suggested an emergency military or reconnaissance operation, particularly over areas considered key strongholds of the pro-UAE leadership.

Military analysts linked the aerial activity to a recent mysterious attack targeting positions of the UAE-funded “Shabwa Shield” factions in Markha Al-Ulya, which left two dead and two injured. Pro-Saudi forces were accused of involvement in the incident.

No official statements have been issued yet by the Saudi military leadership or local authorities in Shabwa, whose officials were reportedly summoned to Riyadh on Friday.

The sudden air activity comes amid escalating security tensions with the leadership of the dissolved pro-UAE Southern Transitional Council (STC), raising questions about the objectives behind these surprise military maneuvers.

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