Saudi Arabia moves to reshape Aden’s security landscape ahead of Al-Alimi’s return

ADEN, Jan. 19 (YPA) – Saudi Arabia has begun implementing sweeping military and security measures in the southern city of Aden, paving the way for the return of Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Rashad al-Alimi to resume his duties from Maashiq Palace.

The move follows what were described as decisive decisions to dissolve the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), remove its leadership, and expel its armed factions from the city.

Sources familiar with the matter said Saudi forces directly supervised the evacuation of military camps previously under the control of the now-dissolved STC, including the strategically significant Jabal Hadid camp. The site had long been regarded as the council’s main stronghold and was under the direct oversight of Aidarous al-Zubaidi, the head of the STC.

According to the sources, forces loyal to the UAE were subsequently relocated outside Aden.

The sources added that the so-called supreme committee of the Saudi-led coalition, with the participation of Al-Amaliqa brigades, formally took control of Jabal Hadid camp, bringing to an end year of STC deployment at the facility, which houses strategic weapons stockpiles.

Jabal Hadid camp holds exceptional military significance due to its central location linking the districts of Khor-Maksar, Sira, and Al-Mualla, making it a key point of control within Aden.

The camp has played a decisive role in Aden’s past confrontations, most notably during the August 2019 events, when STC-affiliated forces used it to expel Presidential Protection units loyal to former president Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi, as well as forces linked to the Islah Party, pushing them toward Abyan province.

AA