The coalition announces Al-Zubaidi's escape from Aden after distributing weapons – details
In a significant development in the ongoing events in the interim capital, the Arab Coalition forces in Yemen announced the escape of Aidarus al-Zubaidi, head of the Southern Transitional Council, following his distribution of weapons within the city of Aden. This announcement comes at a time of heightened political and security tensions in the southern governorates, raising serious questions about the future stability of the liberated areas.
Details of the security tension and the distribution of weapons
Field sources and reports from Aden indicate that the distribution of weapons prior to al-Zubaidi's departure contributed to escalating the security situation, prompting a response and clarification from the Coalition forces' leadership. This move is considered a dangerous escalation that threatens civil peace in a city already suffering from a fragile security infrastructure and multiple military loyalties. The proliferation of weapons outside the control of the state and official institutions is one of the most significant obstacles facing the legitimate government and the Coalition in their efforts to normalize the situation.
Aden, the temporary capital, is in the eye of the storm
The city of Aden holds immense strategic and political importance as the temporary capital of the Republic of Yemen and the seat of the internationally recognized government. Since its liberation from Houthi militia control, the city has remained an arena for political and military tensions, particularly between government forces and the Southern Transitional Council. Any security instability in Aden directly impacts the functioning of government institutions and the services provided to citizens, and negatively affects international efforts to end the conflict in Yemen.
Political background and the Riyadh Agreement
This event cannot be separated from the broader context of the conflict in southern Yemen, specifically the Riyadh Agreement, brokered by Saudi Arabia to bridge the divide between the legitimate government and the Southern Transitional Council. The agreement primarily aimed to unify military efforts and focus on confronting the Houthi coup. However, the failure to implement the military and security aspects of the agreement continues to cast a shadow over the situation, periodically leading to renewed crises and heightened tensions.
Regional and international repercussions
The continued instability in southern Yemen, particularly in Aden, which overlooks vital international shipping lanes in the Gulf of Aden and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, is a source of concern for the international and regional community. The security vacuum could create a fertile ground for extremist groups and impede the delivery of humanitarian aid to millions of Yemenis who depend on it. Therefore, the coalition's announcement and its monitoring of these developments reflect a regional commitment to preventing a descent into widespread violence and underscore the necessity of adhering to the signed agreements and frameworks to guarantee the security and stability of Yemen and the region.
