The leader of Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council (STC), Aidarous al-Zubaidi, skipped a scheduled flight to Riyadh and fled to an unknown location. The Saudi-backed coalition confirmed his absence, signaling a major escalation in Yemen’s southern crisis.
Zubaidi was due to attend a Saudi-hosted forum aimed at resolving clashes between the STC and Yemen’s internationally recognised government. However, he did not board the plane despite a delay of more than three hours. The coalition stated that the whereabouts of Zubaidi remain unknown.
Mobilisation and Armed Activity
During the delay, coalition spokesperson Turki al-Maliki reported that Zubaidi had mobilised significant forces. Factions were reportedly armed with light and medium weapons, heightening concerns of further conflict in southern Yemen.
In response, the coalition carried out limited airstrikes in al-Dhalea province, monitoring movements of armed forces that had departed their bases. Domestic sources noted more than 15 strikes in al-Dhalea, the birthplace of Zubaidi, reflecting pre-emptive measures to contain violence.
Government Response
Following Zubaidi’s flight, the presidential council stripped him of his STC membership and referred him to the public prosecutor. Charges include high treason, inciting armed rebellion, attacking constitutional authorities, and committing abuses against civilians. Council chairman Rashad al-Alimi issued the decision, citing Zubaidi’s actions as a threat to constitutional governance.
For years, the STC has been part of Yemen’s internationally recognised government. However, tensions between the southern separatists and government forces have recently intensified, undermining stability in the region.
Background: Yemen’s Ongoing Conflict
The Houthis seized the Yemeni capital of Sanaa in 2014, prompting Gulf nations to intervene in 2015 in support of the internationally recognised government. Yemen has since been divided into rival zones of control. The recent STC-government clashes highlight the fragility of political alliances and the difficulty of resolving southern unrest.
Analysts warn that Zubaidi’s flight could further destabilise the southern provinces, potentially sparking renewed armed confrontations. Observers note that Saudi-backed negotiations may now face additional challenges.
Future Outlook
The southern crisis in Yemen remains unresolved, with international stakeholders closely monitoring developments. The STC’s leadership crisis and government measures to curb rebellion will play a critical role in the country’s political trajectory.
As tensions rise, the focus remains on whether dialogue can resume or if military escalations will dominate Yemen’s southern provinces.
