Tensions Rise Within Yemen's Anti-Houthi Coalition as Southern Leaders Challenge Saudi-Backed Government

Late last year a short-lived war erupted between the UAE-supported Southern Transitional Council (STC) and the Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), ending with Saudi pressure that led the UAE to withdraw and the STC to announce a dissolution in January. Despite the formal dissolution, STC figures such as Amr al Bidh, who now lives in London and Abu Dhabi, say the movement continues to function from Aden and other southern provinces.

Bidh argues the PLC’s control over southern troops is weak, noting irregular payment and lingering loyalty to the Southern Cause. He also accuses the PLC and its Saudi allies of favoring Islamist groups, which deepens the divide. While the Houthis intensify attacks elsewhere, the internal discord threatens to undermine the broader anti-Houthi coalition.