Aden: The Yemeni government announced its Nation's Shield Forces have taken full control of Hadhramaut's desert and valley region following the withdrawal of Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces. Yemen's state-run media reported the STC's withdrawal from Al-Ghaydah airport and the presidential palace in the eastern province of Al-Mahra.
According to Anadolu Agency, Hadhramaut Governor Salem Al-Khanbashi confirmed the successful completion of operations to secure military camps in the desert and valley region. The Nation's Shield Forces have now deployed to all vital sites, ensuring the security of Seiyun International Airport and other critical facilities across the region.
The governor stated that the forces are moving towards the Hadhramaut coast to maintain security, protect vital facilities, and safeguard public and private property. Meanwhile, the local authority is implementing a normalization plan to ensure the continuity of services and public life in the area.
Tribal forces loyal to the Yemeni government have secured the presidential palace in Seiyun, announcing in a video statement their intention to protect the palace from looting until the Nation's Shield Forces assume control. This development holds significant symbolic importance as the palace is a key sovereign site in Hadhramaut.
An unnamed Yemeni government source revealed that the Nation's Shield Forces regained control of Seiyun International Airport after the STC withdrew. The airport had been closed and converted into a military barracks by the STC during its actions in early December. Yemeni media activists shared videos depicting a strong presence of government forces at the airport.
The Nation's Shield Forces were established in 2023 under the directive of Rashad al-Alimi, head of Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council. Hadhramaut, Yemen's largest governorate, is divided into coastal and valley/desert districts, with Seiyun and Mukalla as major cities.
In a related event, the Yemen state-run Saba news agency reported the STC's withdrawal from Al-Ghaydah Airport and the presidential palace in Al-Mahra. The governor of Al-Mahra has been tasked with managing the facilities and restoring normalcy in the province.
The STC has advocated for southern secession, claiming marginalization by Yemeni governments. However, Yemeni authorities reject these claims, emphasizing their commitment to the country's unity. The recent developments occur amid a tense backdrop, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE at odds over accusations related to STC military activities in Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra.