Armed conflicts between Yemeni military and southern separatists erupt

Reports from local sources indicate that fighting broke out between the Yemeni army, loyal to the internationally recognized government, and the Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces. The clashes occurred as the separatist group attempted to move towards the strategically important al-Ghuraf area in the oil-rich Hadramout governorate.

Videos shared by local activists showed STC forces entering the presidential palace in Seiyun on Wednesday following confrontations with government troops. The STC had positioned themselves in the Jathma region of the Seiyun plateau before launching attacks on the army's central headquarters in the city.

According to regional media, Wadi Hadramout has experienced large-scale military operations since Wednesday morning, accompanied by heavy artillery exchanges. The STC, which has long advocated for southern Yemens independence, currently controls parts of the south, including Aden. On Wednesday, the group announced an operation called Promising Future, describing it as a response to the failure of previous efforts to stabilize the valley, restore security, and prevent exploitation of the region by outside forces.

A Saudi delegation has reportedly mediated negotiations between the conflicting sides in Hadramout, reaching a settlement aimed at ending the fighting.

Yemen has been embroiled in civil conflict and external interference for decades. The Iran-aligned Houthi movement controls much of the northwest and the capital, Sanaa. While their conflict with the Yemeni government and other groups remains largely paused, it has gained international attention due to attacks on Israel and Red Sea shipping following the outbreak of the Israel-Gaza war in October 2023. The United States and Israel have conducted airstrikes in Sanaa targeting Houthi positions, resulting in civilian and leadership casualties. The Houthis maintain their own administrative control in the capital.

Author: Gavin Porter