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Yemen’s Government Launches Operation Against Southern Separatists: A New Phase in the Ongoing Conflict

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By Fiaz Ahmed BrohiPublished 17 days ago 4 min read

Yemen, long embroiled in a complex civil war, is witnessing a significant shift in its ongoing conflict as the Yemeni government launches a new operation aimed at countering southern separatist forces. The operation, which has drawn the attention of both local and international observers, marks a critical development in the broader struggle for control in Yemen. As tensions between various factions continue to rise, the conflict between the internationally recognized government of Yemen and the southern separatist groups threatens to further destabilize the region.
The Escalating Crisis in Yemen
Yemen's civil war began in 2014, when Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, seized control of the capital, Sanaa, and later declared themselves the legitimate government. This triggered a military intervention by a Saudi-led coalition in support of Yemen's internationally recognized government. Despite years of negotiations, countless ceasefire agreements, and peace talks, the conflict has remained unresolved, leading to one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.
However, within this broader conflict, new tensions have emerged. While the government of President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi is backed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the rise of separatist movements in the south has created a fractured political landscape. The Southern Transitional Council (STC), which advocates for an independent southern Yemen, has been a significant force in the southern regions, including the port city of Aden. While the STC initially aligned itself with the internationally recognized government, it has gradually shifted towards a more independent stance, further complicating Yemen’s political and military situation.
The New Government Operation
The Yemeni government’s new operation is intended to reclaim territories in southern Yemen that have been taken over by separatist forces. The government has accused the STC of attempting to seize control of strategic areas, including military bases, airports, and ports. The operation is being led by the Yemeni military, with the support of coalition forces, including Saudi and Emirati troops.
The situation has been particularly tense in areas such as Abyan and Shabwa, where the government and separatists have clashed in recent months. The government has accused the separatists of trying to create a de facto independent state in the south, potentially undermining efforts to unify Yemen under a single government.
The operation marks a decisive moment in Yemen’s ongoing conflict. The military action is aimed at neutralizing the separatist forces and restoring government control over key regions. However, the Yemeni government faces significant challenges, both in terms of military capabilities and political dynamics.
The Southern Transitional Council’s Reaction
The Southern Transitional Council, which has controlled large parts of southern Yemen, has condemned the government’s military operation, calling it an attempt to thwart the aspirations of the southern people. The STC has demanded the establishment of a separate southern state, arguing that the south was historically independent before unification with the north in 1990.
The STC’s position has been supported by some southern Yemeni factions, further complicating efforts to reach a peaceful resolution. While the STC initially supported the internationally recognized government in its fight against the Houthi rebels, it has grown increasingly frustrated with the lack of political and military gains in the south. The separatists’ military capabilities have grown stronger over time, thanks in part to the support from the UAE, which has supported the STC’s push for greater autonomy.
The escalation of violence in the south risks drawing in other regional actors, particularly the UAE, which has heavily invested in the southern cause. The UAE has supported the STC with military and logistical support, and its interests in the region are tied to controlling key ports and shipping lanes in the Gulf of Aden. The involvement of the UAE and Saudi Arabia in the conflict further complicates any attempts at peaceful negotiation, as both countries have competing interests in Yemen.
The Humanitarian Impact
The conflict between the Yemeni government and the southern separatists is not only a military struggle but also a deeply humanitarian crisis. Yemen remains one of the world’s poorest and most war-torn countries, with millions of people displaced, malnourished, and in dire need of aid. The war has caused widespread destruction, and the situation is further exacerbated by a collapsing economy, a failing healthcare system, and a broken infrastructure.
The new operation in the south is likely to worsen the humanitarian situation, as fighting between government forces and separatists could lead to further displacement, injuries, and loss of life. Civilians in areas like Abyan and Shabwa have already borne the brunt of the violence, and many are caught in the crossfire between warring factions.
The Path Forward
As Yemen enters this new phase of conflict, the prospects for peace seem increasingly distant. The Yemeni government’s operation against the separatists is a high-risk move that could lead to further escalation and division. The situation on the ground remains fluid, and it is unclear how the international community will respond to the worsening violence.
The role of the Saudi-led coalition, which has supported the Yemeni government since the beginning of the war, will be critical in determining the outcome of the operation. If the coalition escalates its military involvement, it could widen the conflict and draw in more regional powers, further complicating efforts for peace.
For Yemen, the future remains uncertain. The aspirations of southern separatists, the continued threat of Houthi expansion, and the geopolitical interests of regional powers all contribute to a highly volatile situation. The Yemeni people, who have endured years of conflict, poverty, and instability, are left to hope for a resolution that will bring peace and stability to their war-torn nation. Until then, the battle for the future of Yemen will continue to unfold, with no end in sight.

politics

About the Creator

Fiaz Ahmed Brohi

I am a passionate writer with a love for exploring and creating content on trending topics. Always curious, always sharing stories that engage and inspire.

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