Saudi-backed forces deployed in Aden ahead of STC rally

ADEN, July 07 (YPA) – Saudi-backed forces deployed reinforcements in the southern city of Aden ahead of a rally organized by the dissolved  UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC),  according to local sources.

The sources said Saudi Arabia sent additional fighters from the “Dera Al-Watan” forces on Monday evening amid fears of a possible confrontation with UAE-backed groups during Tuesday’s rally, which was held under the slogan “No to guardianship and occupation.”

According to the sources, the Saudi-backed forces were deployed for the first time in Aden and established security cordons around Al-Maashiq Palace, ports, and government facilities amid fears they could be targeted by groups affiliated with STC.

The sources added that Saudi-backed factions, including the newly deployed forces as well as the Emergency Brigades and the Al-Amaliqa (Giants) Brigades, notably avoided confrontation with STC supporter’s despite of provocative actions.

They said  the STC supporters approached Saudi-backed positions while chanting slogans against Riyadh and calling for “the departure of the Saudis and their proxies from southern Yemen.”

According to the sources, Tuesday’s gathering at Al-Oroudh Square marked one of the largest political demonstrations against Saudi Arabia organized by the STC.

Participants also displayed large portraits of STC President Aidarus al-Zoubaidi despite reports that the Saudi-backed government had issued orders for his arrest.

@E.Y.M