Aidrous al-Zubaidi, the leader of the Southern Yemeni separatists, on Tuesday in his first television appearance since losing control of the territories managed by the Southern Transitional Council (STC) to the government, called for a "general mobilization" against the Houthis and defense of the autonomy of southern Yemen.
Call for Popular Mobilization
In this speech, al-Zubaidi urged the people of southern Yemen to defend their "political identity" and join the general mobilization against the Houthis. He emphasized that this mobilization is essential for defending the national project of southern freedom and continuing the defensive battle against the Houthis and the Iranian expansionist project.
He stated: "We declare a general mobilization to defend the south and our national project, and we will continue the defensive battle against the Houthi militants and all extremist groups that attack our people, political identity, and armed forces throughout the territories of the Arab Republic of Yemen." Al-Zubaidi also referred to the borders prior to May 22, 1990, and emphasized the importance of the independence of southern Yemen.
Political and Military Developments in Yemen
As Yemeni government forces, bolstered by Saudi Arabia and groups including the STC in the south, seek to reclaim lost areas from the Houthis, al-Zubaidi's remarks could signal an escalation of tensions in the region. The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, are attempting to expand their influence along the Red Sea coast of Yemen.
These developments, given the complex political and military situation in Yemen, could have significant implications for security and stability in the country and the region. By calling for a general mobilization, al-Zubaidi aims to create greater unity and solidarity among the people of southern Yemen and thereby exert more pressure on the Houthis.
