Southern Transitional Council

The Southern Transitional Council (STC) is a separatist group in Yemen advocating for an independent state in southern Yemen. They have been a significant player in the region for almost a decade, particularly during the country's civil strife. The STC is currently newsworthy due to recent events suggesting a shift in power dynamics and internal divisions. Recent developments include the announcement of the STC's disbanding by its delegation in Riyadh, which was subsequently rejected by members based in Aden, who claimed coercion. This followed weeks of clashes and the deployment of Saudi-backed forces in Aden, increasing pressure on the separatists. The leader of the STC, Aidarous al-Zubaidi, reportedly fled to the UAE, allegedly with Emirati assistance, causing diplomatic tensions with Saudi Arabia. These events are significant as they potentially reshape the political landscape of southern Yemen and impact the ongoing conflict, with Saudi Arabia seemingly consolidating control and attempting to facilitate dialogue among Yemeni factions.