Yemen – January 7, 2026 – The Saudi Arabia-led coalition has launched airstrikes in Yemen’s southern Dhale governorate after Aidarous al-Zubaidi, the leader of the Southern Transitional Council (STC), failed to board a plane to Riyadh for scheduled peace talks. The strikes target STC forces that coalition officials say were mobilizing near Aden, escalating tensions in the already fragile southern region of Yemen.

Al-Zubaidi Flees Ahead of Riyadh Negotiations

The STC leader was expected to travel from Aden to Riyadh on Tuesday night for discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between his secessionist forces and Yemen’s internationally recognized government. However, coalition officials stated that al-Zubaidi “fled to an unknown location,” leaving behind a mobilized force comprising armored vehicles, combat units, and weaponry.

“During this time, the legitimate government and the coalition received information that al-Zubaidi had mobilized a large force… The coalition launched preemptive strikes at 4am local time to disable those forces and thwart al-Zubaidi’s attempt to escalate the conflict,” the coalition said in a statement.

The STC later confirmed that al-Zubaidi remains in Aden, overseeing military and security operations, while calling on Saudi Arabia to halt the airstrikes. The group also reported losing contact with its delegation in Riyadh.

STC’s Break with Saudi-Backed Government

The STC initially supported Yemen’s internationally recognized government against the Houthi rebels controlling northern Yemen. However, in December 2025, the group launched an offensive against Saudi-backed government troops, seeking autonomy for southern Yemen. Backed by the United Arab Emirates, the STC seized key provinces including Hadramout and Mahra, which collectively cover nearly half of Yemen’s territory and are strategically located along the Saudi border.

Riyadh responded with airstrikes on the port of Mukalla on December 30, targeting what it described as a UAE-linked weapons shipment. Abu Dhabi denied the shipment contained arms and announced an end to its “counterterrorism mission” in Yemen. Following these strikes, Yemeni government troops, with Saudi support, reclaimed control over Hadramout and Mahra.

Despite these tensions, the STC had agreed to attend peace talks hosted by Saudi Arabia. However, al-Zubaidi’s absence and decision to remain in Aden marked a new challenge for the negotiation process.

Al-Zubaidi Removed from Presidential Council

In response to al-Zubaidi’s actions, Yemen’s internationally recognized Presidential Leadership Council, headed by Rashad al-Alimi, removed him from the council for “committing high treason.” Al-Alimi has requested that Yemen’s Attorney General investigate al-Zubaidi and pursue legal action against him.

“Al-Zubaidi’s mobilization of forces and refusal to attend peace talks constitute a direct challenge to the authority of the recognized government,” Al-Alimi said in a statement.

Regional Implications

The recent developments in southern Yemen highlight the ongoing volatility in the Arabian Peninsula, where secessionist movements, regional rivalries, and foreign intervention continue to complicate peace efforts. Analysts warn that al-Zubaidi’s defiance and the Saudi-led airstrikes could further destabilize the region and hinder long-term reconciliation between southern separatists and the Yemeni government.

As the STC consolidates its control over key southern provinces, the coalition’s airstrikes and Riyadh’s diplomatic efforts will be crucial in determining whether Yemen can move toward a negotiated settlement or face prolonged conflict.