Internal differences between the groups fighting against Houthi rebels in Yemen have come to the fore. In a major step, the Presidential Leadership Council, which leads the anti-Huthi forces, has expelled a senior leader associated with the separatist movement from the council. The council has made serious allegations like treason against that leader.
An official statement issued by Sabah news agency, controlled by anti-Huthi groups, said the decision was taken in the interest of national unity and security. According to the statement, the expelled leader disregarded the council’s decisions and took actions that were considered a threat to the country’s sovereignty and stability.
Political analysts say the development reflects growing tensions between Saudi Arabia-backed forces and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC). The STC has been demanding the secession of South Yemen and, despite being part of the anti-Houthi coalition, there have long been differences over its stance.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia said on Wednesday that prominent STC leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi was expected to come to Saudi Arabia, but he did not board the scheduled flight. Saudi officials allege that al-Zubaidi instead gathered weapons and armed fighters and fled the scene. This statement has given rise to new speculations and fears in the Yemen crisis.
However, the Southern Transitional Council has not yet given any official response to this decision of the Presidential Leadership Council or Saudi Arabia’s allegations. STC’s silence has further increased the uncertainty in regional politics.
According to experts, such internal strife in the coalition formed against Houthi rebels can further complicate the conflict. Yemen has already been battling civil war, humanitarian crisis and foreign intervention for years. In such a situation, increasing distrust between anti-Huthi groups can become a serious challenge to peace efforts.
This development clearly indicates that the Yemen crisis is no longer limited to the Houthi rebellion, but the fight for power, regional influence and separatist demands have made the situation more complicated.