The Saudi-backed presidential council in Yemen expelled the leader of a separatist group and charged him with treason after he failed to fly to Riyadh for talks. The council, comprised of six other members of the presidency, accused Aidarous al-Zubaidi, head of the United Arab Emirates-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), of "undermining the independence of the republic," according to reports.

A Saudi-led military coalition stated that Zubaidi "fled" after not joining STC officials on a flight from Aden and "moved a large force" to al-Dahle province. In response, coalition aircraft launched strikes on these forces, the coalition added. The STC described the strikes, which reportedly resulted in four deaths, as "unjustified," maintaining that Zubaidi remained in Aden. The STC also expressed concern over the loss of contact with its delegation in Riyadh.

The recent actions highlight the complex political landscape of Yemen, where the STC seeks independence for south Yemen. Al-Zubaidi's expulsion and the treason charge represent a significant escalation in tensions between the separatist movement and the Saudi-backed government. The Saudi-led coalition's military intervention further complicates the situation.

The United Arab Emirates, initially a key partner in the Saudi-led coalition, previously announced its intention to withdraw from Yemen. This decision followed a Saudi strike on a separatist-held port, signaling potential shifts in regional alliances and strategies.

Saudi Arabia has called for Yemeni factions to participate in a "dialogue" in Riyadh, aiming to de-escalate the conflict and find a political resolution. However, the recent developments, including the expulsion of al-Zubaidi and the military strikes, cast doubt on the prospects for a swift and peaceful resolution. The current status remains tense, with the potential for further escalation depending on the actions of the involved parties.