Thu Jan 01 10:51:55 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the text and a news article based on it:

Summary:

Tensions remain high in Yemen as the Southern Transitional Council (STC) continues to expand its presence in Hadramout and al-Mahra provinces, despite warnings from the internationally recognized Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) and concerns from Saudi Arabia. The STC has agreed to coordinate with Riyadh-backed “Homeland Shield” forces but is refusing to withdraw entirely. Saudi Arabia accuses the UAE of supporting the STC’s advances, a claim the UAE denies while announcing the end of its remaining counterterrorism missions in Yemen. Recent Saudi-led coalition airstrikes on STC-controlled ports highlight the escalating tensions, and the EU warns of potential regional instability.

News Article:

Yemen Tensions Simmer as STC Digs In, Despite Warnings

SANAA, YEMEN – Tensions in Yemen are reaching a boiling point as the Southern Transitional Council (STC) entrenches its forces in the resource-rich provinces of Hadramout and al-Mahra. Despite repeated calls for withdrawal from the internationally recognized Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) and regional powers, the STC appears determined to maintain its presence.

Rashad al-Alimi, head of the PLC, has warned against “unilateral military moves” by the STC, stating that further advances would have “serious consequences.” However, the STC has rejected al-Alimi’s authority and announced a new agreement to deploy additional separatist forces, coordinated with the “Homeland Shield” forces, backed by Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia has expressed grave concerns, accusing the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of supporting the STC’s territorial gains and posing a threat to Saudi national security. The Saudi-led coalition recently conducted airstrikes on weapons and military vehicles arriving at the STC-controlled port of Mukalla, signaling a strong stance against further STC expansion.

While the UAE denies supporting the STC’s advances, the country has announced the end of its remaining “counterterrorism” missions in Yemen.

“The STC’s response to official demands for a withdrawal has been limited,” said Hadramout’s governor, Salem al-Khanbashi, urging the separatists to withdraw and return to their original positions to avoid further bloodshed.

The European Union has also weighed in, warning that developments in Hadramout and al-Mahra risk spurring new instability across the Gulf. The EU has called for de-escalation.

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