Overview
- The Southern Transitional Council announced it will seek a vote within two years on independence for southern Yemen.
- Forces aligned with the interim government and the STC fought on January 2 in Hadramawt province, according to regional reports.
- The STC says Saudi-led coalition aircraft struck its positions during the clashes, reporting multiple casualties, a claim not independently verified.
- The separatist group had cooperated with the interim authorities since around 2015 but has recently expanded its influence in eastern areas, intensifying their rivalry.
- Analysts warn the shift could entrench a three-sided conflict involving the STC, the Saudi-backed government, and the Iran-aligned Houthi movement, worsening instability for civilians.