Story perspectives

Yemen's Al-Zubaidi Flees Amid High Treason Accusations

1/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 7, 2026, Aidarous al-Zubaidi, leader of Yemen's Southern Transitional Council, fled before a Saudi negotiation trip.
Saudi-led coalition spokesperson Turki al-Malki said other STC officials traveled, but al-Zubaidi did not board the flight.
Intelligence indicated al-Zubaidi mobilized a large force with heavy weaponry.
The Saudi-backed presidential council stripped al-Zubaidi of membership for high treason amid Saudi-UAE tensions with the Iran-aligned Houthis, who control Sana'a.

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Story summary

On January 7, 2026, Aidarous al-Zubaidi, leader of Yemen's Southern Transitional Council, fled before a Saudi negotiation trip.
Saudi-led coalition spokesperson Turki al-Malki said other STC officials traveled, but al-Zubaidi did not board the flight.
Intelligence indicated al-Zubaidi mobilized a large force with heavy weaponry.
The Saudi-backed presidential council stripped al-Zubaidi of membership for high treason amid Saudi-UAE tensions with the Iran-aligned Houthis, who control Sana'a.