The coalition announces that Al-Zubaidi fled Aden after distributing weapons
In a significant development in the security and political landscape of Yemen's interim capital, Aden, reports attributed to the Arab Coalition forces indicate that Aidarus al-Zubaidi, head of the Southern Transitional Council, has fled the city after distributing weapons. This announcement comes at a time of heightened tension and caution in the southern governorates, raising numerous questions about the future of stability in the region and the fate of the Riyadh Agreement.
General context and historical background of the conflict in Aden
To understand the dimensions of this event, it is necessary to return to the roots of the tension in southern Yemen. Since the liberation of Aden from the grip of the Houthi militias, the city has witnessed sharp political and military tensions between the internationally recognized legitimate government and the Southern Transitional Council, which was established in 2017. Aden has long been the scene of rounds of armed conflict and tensions that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have tried to contain through continuous mediation, culminating in the signing of the "Riyadh Agreement" in November 2019, which stipulated the integration of military formations and the return of the government to exercise its functions from Aden.
Talk of distributing weapons outside the control of the state brings to mind the scenarios of chaos that the Arab coalition is trying to avoid, as uncontrolled weapons are considered one of the biggest obstacles to restoring state institutions and enforcing the rule of law. This move, if its details are confirmed, would be an escalation that could hinder diplomatic efforts aimed at unifying the Yemeni ranks against the Houthi project.
Strategic importance and expected impacts
This event carries serious implications on several levels. Locally , the distribution and proliferation of weapons among irregular factions could lead to street clashes and threaten civilian lives, as well as undermine the authority of official security forces. Furthermore, the sudden departure of a figure of al-Zubaidi's stature could create a leadership vacuum or confusion among his supporters, further clouding the already uncertain situation.
Regionally , the stability of Aden is a cornerstone of security in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Any security breakdown in this vital region is not in the interest of neighboring countries or the international community, which is closely monitoring the situation in Yemen. This escalation also presents the Arab Coalition with new challenges in enforcing security and ensuring all parties adhere to their previous commitments.
In conclusion, attention remains focused on the official reactions and the next steps that the Arab coalition will take to contain the situation, amid continuous calls to prioritize dialogue and reject violence in order to preserve what remains of the Yemeni state’s capabilities and to stop the bloodshed of Yemenis.
