Presidency Treason Row Deepens After Yemen Council Expels Separatist Leader
A presidency treason row has shaken the political leadership after a dramatic split within the ruling council. The Saudi-backed body expelled a senior figure on charges of betrayal. As a result, tensions across the south have risen sharply.
Council members took action after the leader refused to travel to Riyadh for urgent talks. Instead, the absence triggered strong accusations and an emergency vote. Therefore, the dispute quickly moved into the open.
Council Accusations and Fallout
Six members accused Aidarous al-Zubaidi of threatening national unity. They said his actions weakened the independence of the republic. However, his supporters rejected the claims and called the decision political.
Al-Zubaidi leads the Southern Transitional Council, a powerful group backed by the United Arab Emirates. The body has long pushed for greater autonomy in the south. In addition, it holds significant influence on the ground.
A Saudi-led military coalition responded soon after the vote. Officials claimed al-Zubaidi avoided a scheduled flight from Aden. They also said his forces moved toward al-Dhale province.
Coalition aircraft then launched air strikes on those forces. According to reports, the attacks killed four people. As a result, fears of wider clashes spread.
Conflicting Claims on the Ground
The STC denied the accusations and condemned the air strikes. Leaders called the attacks unjustified and dangerous. They also said al-Zubaidi never left Aden.
Meanwhile, civilians expressed concern over renewed instability. Many worry the dispute could disrupt fragile security arrangements. Therefore, calls for dialogue have grown louder.
Observers say the episode highlights deep divisions within the leadership. Regional allies now face pressure to calm the situation. Ultimately, the next steps may shape the country’s political future.
