UAE-backed southern Yemen separatists to hold independence referendum

UAE-backed separatists in southern Yemen, the Southern Transitional Council (STC), announced they will hold a referendum on independence. This declaration follows deadly fighting with Saudi Arabia and its Yemeni allies after the STC seized large areas in the country's south. The move highlights a growing rift between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with Riyadh conducting airstrikes against the STC, including bombing a port to intercept an alleged UAE weapons shipment. The STC has proposed a two-year transitional period but warned it would declare independence immediately if attacked or if dialogue is not pursued. Government-backed National Shield forces have deployed against the STC insurgency in Hadhramaut province.