STC leadership rejects pro-Saudi defense minister Al-Aqili’s visit to Dhalea

DHALEA, April 21 (YPA) – The UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) leadership in Dhalea province has officially rejected a planned visit by the Saudi-backed government’s Defense Minister Taher Al-Aqili, citing the governorate’s current “security conditions.”

This refusal follows a military escalation two days ago, during which STC-affiliated factions stormed the local government headquarters.

The move also comes amid heightened tensions regarding Al-Aqili’s recent movements in eastern provinces, which pro-UAE forces have characterized as “provocative.”

YPA