STC Takes Control in Yemen’s Hadhramaut and al-Mahra Provinces

The Southern Transitional Council (STC) has gained control over Yemen’s eastern governorates of Hadhramaut and al-Mahra, prompting varied reactions from local residents. Following a swift military campaign that began in early December, STC-aligned forces have successfully seized towns, oil infrastructure, and other strategic locations, raising concerns among communities about the implications of this sudden shift in authority.

On December 3, 2023, a Saudi delegation arrived in Hadhramaut to negotiate a truce, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The STC’s advance coincided with announcements from tribal leaders in Hadhramaut, who declared their intent to manage local oil fields independently. As STC-aligned fighters, known as the Hadrami Elite Forces, progressed from Aden, they faced minimal resistance, with only scattered tribal fighters attempting to confront them.

Residents in Hadhramaut, like 43-year-old Ayman, express a complex view towards the STC’s takeover. “I’m not against the internationally recognized government and not against the STC if they are in Aden,” he stated. “But I’m against anyone who invades us to loot our oil and other wealth.” Ayman’s sentiment reflects a broader apprehension among residents about external control over their resources.

The STC emerged in 2018 as a proponent of an independent southern Yemen but has operated within the framework of the internationally recognized government. While enjoying support in the south, it previously maintained a distance from Hadhramaut and al-Mahra, believing that local sentiments were not yet aligned with its agenda.

Local Sentiments on the Ground

Many residents are wary of the STC’s intentions. Ayman highlighted the perception of invasion, saying, “Fighters from other governorates like al-Dhale and Lahj invaded our governorate and killed our brothers, not for any reason other than to loot us.” He emphasized that while Hadhrami people are known for their peaceful nature, they would not surrender their dignity to invaders.

The STC’s control extends over all southern governorates that constituted the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen prior to the unification in 1990. With both border crossings with Saudi Arabia and Oman now under STC authority, the council’s influence has dramatically increased.

While some residents support the STC, like Saleh Omar, a 51-year-old local, others remain skeptical. Omar argued that Hadhramaut should be returned to the governance of Aden, claiming, “Hadhramaut used to be managed by the regime in Sanaa, and many military leaders in Hadhramaut are from the north.” He believes that the STC must assert its control over all former territories of South Yemen.

In al-Mahra, residents share similar concerns about military intervention from the south. Ammar, 38, a local resident, has openly rejected external military influence, stating, “Al-Mahra has men who can protect it and manage it.” He voiced discontent over STC authorities questioning local residents about their activities, contributing to an atmosphere of distrust.

Responses and Concerns

Ammar also highlighted a growing unease among residents who fear potential repercussions for opposing the STC. “The situation isn’t stable nowadays, and al-Mahra’s residents won’t be settled until all forces from other governorates leave it,” he remarked. Despite this, he and others affirm they will resist peacefully, opting for protests rather than violence.

The STC fighters, however, assert their presence is intended to enhance security. Mahmoud Taher, an STC fighter from Aden, stated that their objective is to secure the border crossing between Yemen and Oman. “We are brothers. But smuggling between Oman and Yemen was frequently reported, and this is an indication that they need our support to secure this crossing,” he explained.

As the situation unfolds, both Hadhramaut and al-Mahra residents are navigating a complex landscape of authority, identity, and control. The STC’s new dominance raises important questions about local governance, resource management, and the future stability of these regions in Yemen.