backed forces in seized areas – DW – 01/01/2026
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Key Points:
- The UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Yemen has agreed to allow Saudi-aligned National Shield forces to deploy in southern regions Hadramout and al-Mahra, which the STC took control of last month.
- Hadramout and al-Mahra are strategically important due to oil fields, ports, and potential pipeline routes that could bypass the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade.
- Despite the agreement, Saudi Arabia remains concerned about the STC's presence in these areas and has urged the separatists to withdraw to protect its national security.
- Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE escalated recently after Saudi strikes targeted alleged Emirati weapons shipments to the STC, prompting the UAE
