Yemen's South Faces New Turmoil as STC Seizes Territory

A separatist group in Yemen, the Southern Transitional Council (STC), has seized territory from the internationally recognized government, threatening to fragment the country further. The UAE-backed STC now controls parts of Hadramout, including oil fields, raising instability as previous hopes for peace dwindle.

The political landscape of Yemen is witnessing a fresh wave of instability as the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist group, announces its control over large swaths of territory from the country's internationally recognized government. This includes strategic oil fields in Hadramout province.

The STC's territorial gains were facilitated by the unexpected withdrawal of Saudi-backed forces from the area, sources claim. This development threatens to dismantle the fragile peace that had ensued since the civil war hit a stalemate in 2022, reviving fears of further fragmentation in the country.

While the United Arab Emirates backs the STC, the Saudi government, which previously allied with the UAE against the Houthis, has yet to comment. The potential diplomatic ramifications in the region remain concerning as international observers monitor the situation closely.

(With inputs from agencies.)