Mukalla

Mukalla is a significant port city located in the Hadramout Governorate of Yemen. It has become newsworthy due to its central role in the ongoing conflict between the internationally recognized Yemeni government, backed by Saudi Arabia, and the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist group supported by the United Arab Emirates. Recent events include government forces retaking control of areas around Mukalla from the STC, leading to a handover of military sites. Saudi-backed forces have been advancing towards the city, seizing territory in Hadramout. A Saudi air strike targeted Mukalla port after ships unloaded weapons for southern separatists. The city's importance is further highlighted by concerns over rising shipping fees impacting the cost of imported goods and food, potentially worsening the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Mukalla's strategic location makes it a key point of contention in the broader power struggle within Yemen.