Full Breakdown
Saudi-Backed Government Regains Control in Southern Yemen
1/12/2026, 9:59:43 PM
Recent Developments in Yemen's Political Landscape
The internationally recognized government of Yemen, led by the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), has regained full control of southern Yemen from the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist group previously aligned with the Saudi-backed government. This shift follows military intervention by Saudi Arabia after the STC captured the provinces of Hadramout and al-Mahra, which Riyadh deemed a threat to its national security. Rashad al-Alimi, head of the PLC, confirmed the recapture of these regions and emphasized the need for unity among Yemeni factions to restore state institutions.
The Dissolution of the Southern Transitional Council
The STC, which had sought independence for southern Yemen since its formation in 2017, announced its dissolution amid military setbacks. Following the PLC's advances, STC Secretary-General Abdulrahman Jalal al-Subaihi stated that the decision to disband was made to preserve peace and security. However, dissent within the STC remains, with spokesman Anwar al-Tamimi rejecting the dissolution announcement as "ridiculous." The group's leader, Aidarous al-Zubaidi, fled to the UAE after being stripped of his PLC membership and charged with high treason.
Saudi Arabia's Strategic Interests
Saudi Arabia's military involvement is driven by its strategic interests in Yemen's eastern provinces, particularly due to their oil resources and geographical significance. Experts suggest that losing influence in these areas would create a security gap for Riyadh. The Saudi-led coalition has also requested the UAE to withdraw its forces from Yemen, which has strained relations between the two nations. The UAE has since announced a complete withdrawal of its military personnel, citing a reassessment of its role in the conflict.
Future Political Framework and Challenges
The PLC aims to establish a unified political framework for Yemen, but significant challenges remain. Al-Alimi has called for a southern dialogue conference, yet the future of southern autonomy and the STC's influence are uncertain. While some STC leaders have shown willingness to engage in dialogue, internal divisions complicate the situation. The Houthis, who control the northwest, continue to assert their legitimacy and reject the PLC's authority, further complicating efforts for a unified Yemen.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics argue that the dissolution of the STC and the PLC's consolidation of power may not lead to lasting peace. The Houthis view the PLC as a Saudi proxy, while the PLC accuses the Houthis of being an Iranian proxy. The mistrust between these factions raises concerns about the potential for renewed conflict, especially as both sides have drawn red lines regarding control over Yemen.
What's Next?
The upcoming southern dialogue conference, sponsored by Saudi Arabia, aims to address the political future of Yemen. However, the effectiveness of this conference in reconciling the interests of the PLC, the STC, and the Houthis remains to be seen. As Yemen's conflict evolves, the focus may shift from the south to the north, where a confrontation between PLC forces and the Houthis is anticipated.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As the president of the country and the high commander of the armed forces, I want to assure you of the recapture of Hadramout and al-Mahra,” — Rashad al-Alimi, Head of the Presidential Leadership Council
- “The dissolution of the STC suggests clearly there is a clear restructuring of the political process within Yemen.” — Abdulaziz Alghashian, Adjunct Professor at Naif Arab University
- “The big question: Is there a common ground that al-Alimi’s government and the Houthis can agree on?” — Yousef Mawry, Journalist based in Sanaa
This article outlines the recent developments in Yemen's political landscape, focusing on the implications of the PLC's regained control and the challenges ahead for a unified Yemen.
