Report Details
Initial Publish Date
Last Updated: 09 JAN 2026
Report Focus Location: MENA
Authors: GSAT
Contributors: GSAT, NA
GSAT Lead: MF
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Sentinel SITREP
The Southern Transitional Council (STC), the UAE-backed separatist movement that has controlled much of southern Yemen since 2017, announced its dissolution on 09 January 2026. The announcement came from STC members participating in Saudi-hosted talks in Riyadh, citing the organization's failure to achieve its independence goals.
This collapse follows a decisive week of Saudi military and political action. On 07 January, Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council expelled STC President Aidarous al-Zubaidi on charges of high treason after he refused to board a flight to Riyadh for negotiations. The Saudi-led coalition conducted over 15 airstrikes on al-Dhale governorate, al-Zubaidi's home province, killing at least four civilians and destroying STC military positions. Saudi-backed Dra' al-Watan (Shield of the Nation) forces rapidly recaptured Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra governorates between 02-04 January, reversing STC territorial gains from December 2025's Operation Promising Future.
This development represents what looks like a decisive Saudi victory in the intra-coalition power struggle and fundamentally reshapes the political landscape of southern Yemen.
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GSAT (Geopolitical and Security Analysis Team) is Riley Sentinel's collective byline for team contributions or analysts requiring profile management due to sensitive work. All contributors are vetted by Riley Risk senior staff.
