Emirati‑backed forces seize oil fields in Hadhramaut and Shabwa
Following the advances of Southern Transitional Council (STC) fighters in Hadramaut province, the positions of the Islah Party in Shabwa have also been weakened. A convoy of Shabwa Defense Forces succeeded in taking control of the al‑Aqla oil facilities. After capturing the field, Shabwa Defense Forces established checkpoints around it.
At the same time, STC fighters seized all checkpoints and outposts surrounding the PetroMasila oil company (affiliated with Saudi Arabia) in Hadhramaut province.
The advance of Emirati‑aligned forces in Hadramaut and Shabwa, coupled with the repeated withdrawals of Islah fighters, marks a significant shift. The STC does not have the capacity to control these areas without support from other Emirati‑backed factions, indicating Abu Dhabi’s role behind the scenes.
In the coming days, attention will turn to Saudi Arabia’s response to these southern advances and what orders will be issued to the al‑Dara al‑Watan forces. Opponents of the UAE in Hadramaut are awaiting action by al‑Dara al‑Watan against the southerners.
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