Hadramout

Hadramout is a governorate in southern Yemen that has been a key battleground between the internationally recognized Yemeni government (Presidential Leadership Council - PLC), backed by Saudi Arabia, and the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist group supported by the UAE. Hadramout is newsworthy due to recent shifts in control. In late 2025, the STC expanded its influence into Hadramout and al-Mahra, intensifying Yemen's fragmentation. However, in early January 2026, Saudi-backed government forces successfully retook military sites in Hadramout from the STC. This was followed by a complete handover of these sites. The governor of Hadramout has indicated that ports and airports will soon be operational. The situation in Hadramout is significant as it reflects the broader conflict in Yemen, involving regional powers and impacting the country's stability and humanitarian situation. The future of southern Yemen, including Hadramout, is being discussed in Saudi-sponsored talks.