Tensions Escalate in Yemen’s Hadramout Amid Rival Military Movements

Tensions are rising in Yemen’s strategic Hadramout province as opposing military forces began mobilizing toward contested positions, raising concerns over a potential escalation on the ground.

According to available field information, units of the National Shield Forces have advanced toward sites previously controlled by the Southern Transitional Council (STC). The movements were accompanied by large-scale military reinforcements, including armored vehicles and troop carriers, which were seen heading toward the Al-Khasha’a area from the Al-Abr region.

The Southern Transitional Council said its forces remain stationed at their current positions and are prepared to confront any advance. In a statement, the STC described the developments as an assault on military locations that its forces had previously secured after taking them over from extremist groups, stressing that it would not relinquish control of the sites.

Meanwhile, the governor of Hadramout called for all forces and military positions to be handed over to the local authorities, citing constitutional and security responsibilities. He said the move would help restore stability and protect civilians, adding that the province had witnessed notable stability during earlier phases of his administration. The governor emphasized that the step falls within his constitutional authority as head of the local administration.

The situation remains tense as military mobilization continues, with fears of further instability in the oil-rich province.