An official with Yemen's separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) refuted an announcement that the group was disbanding, stating that delegation members in Riyadh were coerced into making the statement. The announcement, purportedly signaling the end of the STC, was made public earlier today.
The STC official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation, told Al Jazeera that the delegation members were under duress when they agreed to the disbandment statement. The official did not elaborate on the specific nature of the coercion, but the claim raises serious questions about the validity of the announcement and the future of the separatist movement in southern Yemen.
The Southern Transitional Council was formed in 2017 amidst the ongoing Yemeni civil war. The group, backed by the United Arab Emirates, has been advocating for the secession of southern Yemen, a region that was once an independent state before unification with the north in 1990. The STC has been a key player in the conflict, often clashing with forces loyal to the internationally recognized Yemeni government, despite both nominally being part of the Saudi-led coalition fighting against the Houthi rebels.
The alleged disbandment announcement comes at a critical juncture in the Yemeni peace process. International efforts have been intensifying to find a negotiated solution to the conflict, which has caused a severe humanitarian crisis. The STC's presence has complicated these efforts, as its separatist demands diverge from the goals of the Yemeni government and the broader international community.
The future of the STC and its fighters remains uncertain. If the claim of coercion is substantiated, it could further destabilize the region and undermine peace talks. Analysts suggest that the situation could lead to renewed clashes between the STC and government forces, potentially reigniting a major front in the civil war. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with calls for clarification and a commitment to a peaceful resolution to the Yemeni conflict. Further statements from both the STC leadership and the Saudi government are expected in the coming days.
Discussion
Join the conversation
Be the first to comment