Saudi-backed forces launch successful operation, retaking multiple cities in southern Yemen, but tensions remain. The Presidential Leadership Council announced "record success" after operations against the United Arab Emirates-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) gained momentum.
Government troops backed by Saudi Arabia have successfully reclaimed control of Hadramout and al-Mahra provinces from STC forces, which had seized these regions in early December. Mukalla, a key eastern port city and capital of Hadramout province, was also retaken after being occupied by STC fighters.
The operation began on Saturday with Homeland Shield forces achieving significant gains, including the control of all nine districts of al-Mahra governorate. Yemen's largest governorate, Hadramout, saw its districts taken under government control, marking a crucial shift in the conflict.
Yemeni authorities attributed the success to military action and welcomed Saudi Arabia's involvement in mediating peace talks between STC forces and the internationally recognized government. The offer of dialogue was seen as an opportunity for both sides to address long-standing grievances.
However, tensions persist across southern Yemen, with at least 80 STC fighters killed in clashes with Saudi-backed forces. Another 152 were wounded, and 130 taken captive. Despite this, STC officials acknowledged the value of dialogue and called for its continuation to protect "the aspirations of the southern people".
Local sources reported that life is returning to normal in the city of Seiyun, where efforts are underway to reactivate state institutions and provide essential services. Yemen's internationally recognized government has also accused the STC of imposing movement restrictions on citizens in Aden, prompting a call for an end to these measures.
Government forces vow to press on from Hadramout towards Aden, which remains under STC control, as flights resume at Aden International Airport after the airport was closed due to tensions.
Government troops backed by Saudi Arabia have successfully reclaimed control of Hadramout and al-Mahra provinces from STC forces, which had seized these regions in early December. Mukalla, a key eastern port city and capital of Hadramout province, was also retaken after being occupied by STC fighters.
The operation began on Saturday with Homeland Shield forces achieving significant gains, including the control of all nine districts of al-Mahra governorate. Yemen's largest governorate, Hadramout, saw its districts taken under government control, marking a crucial shift in the conflict.
Yemeni authorities attributed the success to military action and welcomed Saudi Arabia's involvement in mediating peace talks between STC forces and the internationally recognized government. The offer of dialogue was seen as an opportunity for both sides to address long-standing grievances.
However, tensions persist across southern Yemen, with at least 80 STC fighters killed in clashes with Saudi-backed forces. Another 152 were wounded, and 130 taken captive. Despite this, STC officials acknowledged the value of dialogue and called for its continuation to protect "the aspirations of the southern people".
Local sources reported that life is returning to normal in the city of Seiyun, where efforts are underway to reactivate state institutions and provide essential services. Yemen's internationally recognized government has also accused the STC of imposing movement restrictions on citizens in Aden, prompting a call for an end to these measures.
Government forces vow to press on from Hadramout towards Aden, which remains under STC control, as flights resume at Aden International Airport after the airport was closed due to tensions.