Coalition Says Yemen’s Al-Zubaidi Fled to Unknown Location, Conducts Preemptive Strikes

The Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government said on Wednesday that Aidarus al-Zubaidi, head of the Southern Transitional Council (STC), has fled to an unknown location, as coalition forces carried out what they described as preemptive strikes to disrupt his affiliated forces.

In a statement, the coalition said al-Zubaidi failed to comply with an order to travel to Riyadh for consultations with coalition leadership and members of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council. The talks were intended to address recent military escalations involving STC-aligned units.

According to the coalition, intelligence indicated that al-Zubaidi had mobilized armed forces and military equipment, raising concerns about potential expansion of clashes in southern Yemen. In response, coalition forces said they launched limited preemptive strikes targeting positions linked to his forces, aiming to prevent further escalation and restore stability.

The coalition described al-Zubaidi’s departure as a flight to an undisclosed location and urged civilians to avoid military sites and gatherings of armed groups in affected areas for their safety.

The STC later denied the coalition’s claims, saying al-Zubaidi remains engaged in his duties and rejecting accusations that he had fled. The council criticized the strikes and called for dialogue to resolve internal disputes.

The developments highlight growing tensions among factions opposed to Yemen’s Houthi movement and underscore challenges facing efforts to maintain unity within the anti-Houthi camp, as the country continues to grapple with years of conflict and political instability.