Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council leader, Aidarous Al-Zubaidi, revealed the initiation of a two-year transitional phase in Aden. This period will involve the council governing the southern regions before a referendum on southern independence. Al-Zubaidi stated that this transition will culminate in a constitutional declaration to reinstate the State of South Yemen by January 2, 2028.
Following this phase, a referendum on self-determination will be held with a commitment to peaceful and transparent processes. Al-Zubaidi emphasized that if the STC’s demands are ignored or if southern Yemen faces military threats, the constitutional declaration might be implemented earlier than planned. The Yemeni government, backed by Saudi Arabia, has not yet responded to the STC’s announcement.
Amid ongoing clashes between STC forces and Yemeni government troops in Hadramout, the STC’s announcement has heightened tensions. Reports indicate intensified fighting as both sides vie for control in this strategically vital region. Recent airstrikes by Saudi warplanes in Hadramout have resulted in casualties, including at Seiyun Airport.
Yemen has been in turmoil since 2014 when Houthi forces captured Sanaa, leading to a Saudi-led coalition intervention in 2015. Established in 2017 and supported by the UAE, the STC advocates for southern Yemen’s self-rule and eventual independence. Despite being part of Yemen’s ruling council, the STC’s pursuit of sovereignty has led to disagreements over power-sharing and resource control.
