Tensions escalate in Mukalla as protesters tear down images of Saudi leaders

MUKALLA, Sept. 02 (YPA) – Tensions escalated in the eastern coastal city of Mukalla on Wednesday as demonstrators tore down and trampled images of Saudi leaders during a mass rally organized by the Southern Transitional Council (STC).

Activists widely shared footage showing demonstrators burning portraits of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) Head Rashad al-Alimi, placing them underfoot during Tuesday’s “Army Day” protest.

Demonstrators called for an end to Saudi control and foreign interference, demanding the expulsion of Saudi forces from the region.

Following the tearing down of images of Saudi rulers, Saudi-backed governor Salem Al-Khanbashi ordered a military operation targeting the Southern Transitional Council (STC) figures, including local leader Ali Al-Jafri.

Security forces launched a sweeping crackdown in Mukalla early Wednesday, cordoning off several residential districts and raiding the homes of the STC’s leaders.

@E.Y.M