Capture of Aden and Abyan by Saudi-backed government forces (Map)

After consecutive defeats of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra — and their withdrawal without fighting from the Balhaf gas facility and the strategic Marra base in Shabwah — the focus of pro-government forces shifted to southern Yemen. In initial negotiations, local authorities in Abyan agreed to hand over their positions to Al-Dara’ Al-Watan forces. Southern militants and allied tribes have not yet surrendered their positions, but they also have not shown resistance.

In Aden, government and service facilities — including the Presidential Palace (Al-Ma’ashiq) and Aden Airport — had already been evacuated by STC fighters and handed over to representatives of the government-in-exile. Early this morning, Al-Dara’ Al-Watan forces entered Aden via the coastal road and Al-Anad base, taking control of military and security sites. Elements of the Giants Brigades also assumed control of parts of Aden at the order of the Saudi-led coalition. Their commander, Abu Zarah Al-Muharrami, officially split from the STC yesterday and pledged allegiance to Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman.

The disappearance of Aidarus al-Zoubaidi — head of the Southern Transitional Council — at dawn today, and his failure to travel to Riyadh, has angered the Saudis and escalated tensions between the STC and the government-in-exile. Rashad Al-Alimi has revoked his membership in the Presidential Leadership Council. This situation suggests instability will continue in the occupied regions of Yemen — and it is likely that Al-Dhale and Lahij will soon witness Saudi attacks and further Southern capitulations.