Sana'a: Yemen's army reported that 32 of its officers and soldiers were killed and 45 others wounded in an attack by Southern Transitional Council forces in the eastern Hadramout province.

According to Anadolu Agency, the casualties were from the First Military Region following clashes when Southern Transitional Council forces targeted army positions in Wadi Hadramout on December 2.

The fighting, which led to multiple deaths and injuries on both sides, resulted from the attack on sites belonging to the First Military Region. The Southern Transitional Council expanded its operations the next day, seizing control of several oil fields and extending its influence across Hadramout's wadi and desert areas.

The military condemned the assault, stating it aimed to destabilize security in Hadramout and threatened liberated areas while undermining the political process. The statement also noted some officers and soldiers remain missing. The General Staff accused the attacking forces of serious violations, including killing wounded soldiers and executing detainees.

The escalation in Hadramout followed the arrival of a Saudi delegation aiming to contain the situation. The Saudi delegation later called for the withdrawal of Southern Transitional Council forces from Hadramout and neighboring Mahra.

Presidential Leadership Council Chair Rashad al-Alimi has called for the withdrawal of Southern Transitional Council forces, accusing them of actions that undermine Yemen's government. However, the council has rejected these calls, with National Assembly head Ali Abdullah al-Kathiri stating their forces will continue to strengthen security in the area.

The Southern Transitional Council, formed in 2017, seeks the secession of southern Yemen. Meanwhile, the Hadramout Tribal Alliance, established in 2013, seeks autonomy for the province and is not aligned with either the council or the government. Yemen's unity in 1990 has seen renewed secessionist calls amid the ongoing civil war. Despite efforts, peace in Yemen remains elusive amid the conflict between government forces and the Houthi group controlling much of northern Yemen.