UAE-backed STC militias seize key areas in Mahra and Hadramawt

UAE-Backed Militias Seize Key Areas in Yemen"s Mahra and Hadramawt Regions

On December 8, 2025, UAE-backed militias, primarily aligned with the Southern Transitional Council (STC) and forces loyal to Tariq Saleh, have made significant territorial gains in Yemen. These militias now control most of Yemen"s crucial coastal areas along the Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea. Their dominance extends to most of Yemen"s ports, positioning them to potentially control the nation’s resources, including its oil reserves.

Key Details

The recent military advancements by the STC-aligned militias occurred after Saudi-backed National Salvation Forces (NSF) units withdrew from several strategic locations in the Mahra governorate. This withdrawal allowed the STC forces to seize control of multiple key areas and towns within Mahra, marking a significant shift in the power dynamics of the region.

In addition to the developments in Mahra, STC-aligned tribes have also made notable progress in the Hadramawt governorate. They successfully captured significant portions of Rumah town, which is located near the border with Saudi Arabia. This expansion further consolidates the STC"s influence in southern Yemen and enhances their strategic positioning in the ongoing conflict.

The STC, which has been seeking greater autonomy for southern Yemen, has received substantial backing from the United Arab Emirates. This support has enabled them to strengthen their military capabilities and expand their territorial control amidst the ongoing civil unrest in Yemen.

Background

The conflict in Yemen has been ongoing since 2014, when Houthi rebels seized control of the capital, Sana"a. The situation escalated into a civil war involving various factions, including the internationally recognized government, Houthi forces, and separatist groups like the STC. The UAE has played a significant role in supporting the STC and other militias, often in opposition to Saudi-backed forces, which has led to a complex and fragmented conflict landscape.

Control over Yemen"s ports and coastal areas is critical, as these locations are vital for trade and the importation of humanitarian aid. The ongoing conflict has severely impacted the humanitarian situation in Yemen, which is already facing one of the world"s worst humanitarian crises.

What"s Next

The recent territorial gains by UAE-backed militias could have significant implications for the future of Yemen. With control over key coastal areas and ports, these militias are positioned to dominate the country"s resources, potentially leading to increased tensions with other factions, including Saudi-backed forces. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated as the conflict continues to evolve.

For more insights into the shifting dynamics in Yemen, refer to our recent developments regarding the STC"s potential plans for northern Yemeni cities.

As the situation unfolds, the international community continues to monitor the humanitarian implications of the conflict, especially given the ongoing challenges in delivering aid to those in need. For more on the humanitarian crisis, see our coverage on the falling levels of UN humanitarian funding.