Uncertainty Over Aden
Aden
Uncertainty over the fate of Yemen’s southern separatist leader has deepened the political and security crisis in the country’s south, while tensions continue between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Aidarous al Zubaidi, leader of the UAE backed Southern Transitional Council, skipped a planned trip to Riyadh for talks, triggering confusion and fresh conflict.
The STC later said Zubaidi was in the port city of Aden, overseeing military and security operations. However, it admitted it had lost contact with its delegation that travelled to Saudi Arabia. Saudi backed officials said government forces were advancing towards Aden, though Zubaidi’s exact location could not be independently confirmed.
The sudden developments have reduced hopes for a quick resolution to the southern crisis. The standoff has exposed a serious rift between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, long time allies who now support opposing sides in Yemen. Both countries are key players in the coalition fighting the Iran aligned Houthi group.
Saudi officials earlier raised concerns about Zubaidi’s disappearance and accused him of moving armed forces and distributing weapons to fuel unrest. The Saudi backed Presidential Leadership Council removed Zubaidi from its membership and referred him to prosecutors on charges including high treason and armed rebellion.
Zubaidi’s deputy met Saudi leaders earlier this week and was later tasked with maintaining security in Aden, signaling shifting alliances. Meanwhile, Saudi coalition forces carried out limited airstrikes in southern Yemen, citing security threats.
The crisis follows clashes last month when STC forces seized territory in the south, changing the balance of power. Analysts warn that unless dialogue resumes soon, the dispute could further destabilise Yemen, weaken the anti Houthi coalition, and worsen an already prolonged humanitarian and political conflict across the region.
