Supporters of STC Rally in Aden to Demand Independence

Rally in Support of the Southern Transition Council

Despite conflicting reports about the separatist group STC's intentions to dissolve, thousands of Yemenis took to the streets of Aden to express their support. They chanted slogans against Saudi Arabia and the government in Sana'a amid escalating tensions between Saudi forces and the United Arab Emirates, a key ally accused of backing the STC.

Protesters waved the flag of the former South Yemen, an independent state from 1967 to 1990. "Today, the people from the south gathered from all provinces to reaffirm what they have been saying for years: we want an independent state," stated protester Yacoub al-Safyani.

The mobilization followed a successful offensive, backed by Saudi Arabia, which led to the expulsion of the STC from the regions it controlled, resulting in heightened regional tensions. Although an STC delegate recently announced the group's dissolution, a spokesperson challenged the decision, highlighting internal divisions within the movement.