Rashad al-Alimi

Rashad al-Alimi is the head of Yemen's internationally recognized Presidential Leadership Council (PLC). He is newsworthy due to the PLC's recent efforts to consolidate power and challenge the Houthi rebels who control northwest Yemen. The PLC, backed by Saudi Arabia, recently retook control of southern areas previously held by the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC), reversing a month-long takeover. Al-Alimi also cancelled a joint defense deal with the UAE, ordering their forces to leave Yemen. These actions are significant as they represent an attempt to unify Yemen under the PLC and potentially launch a campaign against the Houthis. However, challenges remain, including the STC's continued presence and the risk of further fragmentation, impacting Yemen's economic and political stability.