Yemen's internationally recognized government declared Saturday that it had regained control of southern regions previously held by the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC). Rashad al-Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council backed by Saudi Arabia, announced in a televised address that government forces had secured all contested cities.

"As the president of the country and the high commander of the armed forces, I want to assure you of the recapture of Hadramout and al-Mahra," al-Alimi stated. The announcement comes amid internal divisions within the STC and the exile of its leader, adding uncertainty to the future of the separatist movement.

The STC, which seeks independence for South Yemen, has been a significant player in the ongoing Yemeni conflict. The group's emergence is rooted in historical grievances stemming from the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990. Many southerners feel marginalized by the Sanaa-based government, fueling support for secession. The current conflict in Yemen began in 2014 when the Houthi rebels, a Zaidi Shia group, seized control of Sanaa, prompting a Saudi-led coalition to intervene in 2015 in support of the internationally recognized government.

The recapture of these southern areas marks a potential shift in the balance of power in Yemen, though the long-term implications remain unclear. The conflict has created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with millions facing starvation and displacement. International efforts to mediate a lasting peace have so far been unsuccessful. The United Nations and various international actors continue to urge all parties to engage in dialogue and prioritize the needs of the Yemeni people. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the government consolidates its control and the STC considers its next steps.