The governor of Hadramawt launches a military operation to take over positions held by the Southern Transitional Council

The governor of Hadramawt launched a military and security operation aimed at taking control of and securing several sites and positions previously held by forces affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council. This move seeks to extend state authority and unify military and security command in Yemen's largest governorate. These actions are being carried out in accordance with directives from the higher command and the governorate's security committee to bolster stability and end military tensions.

General context and historical background of the conflict in Hadhramaut

This step is of paramount importance given the complex context that Hadramawt Governorate has been experiencing for years. The oil-rich and resource-rich governorate, which comprises a third of Yemen's landmass, has long been an arena for competition between various forces within the anti-Houthi camp. Hadramawt has consistently witnessed tensions between the First Military Region forces, the Hadrami Elite Forces affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council, and newly formed groups such as the "Homeland Shield" established by the Presidential Leadership Council.

Historically, Hadramawt has always sought to distance itself from direct armed conflicts, preferring to preserve its social fabric and official institutions. This handover process comes as part of ongoing efforts to implement the military aspects of the political agreements aimed at integrating military formations under the umbrella of the Ministries of Defense and Interior.

Strategic and economic importance

This event cannot be understood in isolation from the strategic importance of Hadramawt. It is not merely a geographical area, but the economic lifeline of Yemen, encompassing the most important oil fields, the Al-Dhaba export terminal, a long coastline, and Al-Rayyan International Airport. The local authorities' takeover of military sites strengthens the state's ability to protect these vital installations and sends a reassuring message to foreign companies and investors regarding the stability of the security situation.

Expected impacts locally and regionally

At the local level, this process is expected to contribute to easing military tensions in the province and unifying efforts to address shared security challenges, including combating terrorism and smuggling. It also strengthens the legitimacy of the local authority under the governor's leadership and provides him with the necessary tools to manage security effectively.

Regionally and internationally, the steps taken to unify the military ranks in the liberated governorates enjoy strong support from the Arab Coalition led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The stability of Hadramawt is considered a cornerstone of regional security and of the success of any future comprehensive political settlement in Yemen. The success of this process could serve as a model for other governorates suffering from a duality of military command.