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Separatists in South Yemen Declare Independence From Saudi-Backed Government

The Saudi-backed Yemeni government warned the separatists of “dangerous and catastrophic consequences.”

Separatists with the Southern Transitional Council in southern Yemen, who are supported by the United Arab Emirates, have declared self-rule, breaking a peace deal signed in November with the Saudi-backed government which is internationally recognized. The ruling government warned the separatists and their supporters of “dangerous and catastrophic consequences” over the move. “The announcement by the so-called transitional council of its intention to establish a southern administration is a resumption of its armed insurgency.” Foreign Minister Mohammed Al-Hadhrami said in a statement. A Saudi-led coalition launched a military campaign in 2015 after Houthi rebels seized the capital of Sanaa. In August, the Southern Transitional Council seized the government’s temporary capital of Aden.