Aden, Yemen – The Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Yemen on Wednesday denied reports circulated by Saudi Arabia that its president, Aidarus al-Zubaidi, had left for an unknown location. The council affirmed that it was carrying out its duties normally from the capital, Aden. This coincided with the coalition’s announcement of airstrikes in the Dhale province.
Al-Zubaidi carries out his duties
In an official statement published on its website, the council confirmed that Major General Aidarus al-Zubaidi “continues his duties from the capital, Aden, alongside his people.” It denied the Saudi-led coalition’s earlier announcement that al-Zubaidi had “fled to an unknown location.” Instead, it explained that he had simply failed to board the plane scheduled to transport him to Riyadh.
The statement explained that al-Zubaidi directly oversees the work of military, security, and civilian institutions. The goal is to ensure stability in Aden and the rest of the southern governorates. This is “based on the national responsibility entrusted to him.”
Military escalation in Al-Dhale
On the ground, the Saudi-led coalition announced it had carried out airstrikes targeting forces loyal to the Southern Transitional Council in the Dhale province. In its first response to these attacks, the Council stated that the airstrikes resulted in civilian casualties. These included women and children.
The council described this move as a “regrettable escalation” that contradicts the climate of dialogue and declared political efforts.
The “Transitional” delegation arrives in Riyadh
On the political front, and despite the ongoing tensions on the ground, the council announced that an official delegation would travel to the Saudi capital, Riyadh, on Tuesday night. The delegation is headed by the council’s Secretary-General, Abdul Rahman Shaher al-Subaihi. It is scheduled to participate in the upcoming conference concerning the cause of the people of southern Yemen.
The Southern Transitional Council reiterated its commitment to a “positive and responsible approach” to various political initiatives. It emphasized that serious dialogue is the only way to address just causes. Foremost among them are the aspirations and legitimate rights of the people of South Yemen.
