Saudi-aligned forces raid home of UAE-backed southern leader in Hadramout

HADRAMOUT, Feb. 03 (YPA) – In a fresh sign of escalating “proxy” tensions between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, Saudi-affiliated emergency forces reportedly raided the home of Mohammed Abdul-Malik Karama Al-Zubaidi, head of the Assistant Local Leadership Executive Body (LLEB) of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Wadi Hadramout, a figure reportedly close to the UAE.

The move reflects rising field tensions in Wadi Hadramout, an area considered strategically vital in the competing spheres of influence of Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

No official explanation has been issued regarding the reasons for the raid or the authority that ordered it. However, observers suggest it may be part of efforts by pro-Riyadh forces to curb the influence of the STC — in oil-rich and strategically sensitive areas.

In a related development, activist Wafi Al-Omari raised troubling questions about the fate of leaders Mohammed Al-Zubaidi and Ali Al-Kathiri, noting that both have been missing since their last public appearance in the governorate, amid conflicting reports regarding the consequences of recent military operations in the region.

@E.Y.M