In recent disclosures, Yemeni Council member and Governor of Hadhramaut, Salem Al-Khambashi, has highlighted serious violations in Hadhramaut, accusing armed groups aligned with Southern Transitional Council leader Aidros Al-Zubaidi of committing acts of murder, kidnapping, and property destruction. This situation raises significant concerns as it underscores ongoing tensions in the region and the broader implications for stability in southern Yemen.
Al-Khambashi’s Revelations
During a press conference held in Mukalla, Governor Salem Al-Khambashi alleged that pro-Zubaidi armed groups have perpetrated numerous crimes, including murder, kidnapping, and the illegal confiscation of state properties. He explained that these groups recently invaded Hadhramaut, although government forces, with support from Saudi Arabia, managed to regain control and restore order. Al-Khambashi stated, “Hadhramaut was a beacon of hope for all southern provinces breathing the air of liberation from Zubaidi’s tyranny and the UAE’s hegemony, which has exploited the guise of the Saudi-led Coalition to advance its own agendas detrimental to the southern cause.”
Disturbing Finds at Al-Riyan Airport
Al-Khambashi revealed troubling discoveries at Al-Riyan Airport’s base in Mukalla, including suspicious equipment, explosives, and secret detention facilities. He emphasized that they found quantities of explosives and deceptive traps, with some prepared for attacks against civilians. He stated, “These findings reflect a dire threat to our community’s safety.” The governor assured that justice would be served, promising legal, psychological, and health support for the victims and their families.
Call for Accountability
The governor stressed that all necessary measures would be taken to hold accountable those responsible for these violations, including Zubaidi and Emirati officials implicated in these human rights abuses. “No entity or individual will escape justice,” he affirmed, “This includes a commitment to ensuring victims’ rights and providing fair compensation for damages suffered.”
Media Coverage and Context
Following Al-Khambashi’s announcements, the Yemeni official television aired footage purportedly showing explosives and assassination tools discovered at Al-Riyan Airport. The situation in Hadhramaut reflects a broader military struggle that erupted in early December when Southern Transitional Council forces launched an offensive in the Hadhramaut and Al-Mahrah governorates. Though initially successful, government forces, backed by a Saudi-led coalition, regained control in early January.