Southern Yemeni Separatists Publish Constitution and Plan Independence Referendum

The Southern Transitional Council (STC), a UAE-backed separatist movement in Yemen, has published a 30-article constitution for a new "State of South Arabia" and said it will hold a referendum on independence after a two-year transition period. STC leader Aidarous al Zoubeidi said the constitution would be in effect for two years, during which time relevant parties in north and south Yemen should hold dialogue on mechanisms to guarantee the South's "right to self-determination".

The proposed state would cover the territory of the former People's Democratic Republic of Yemen, which existed from 1967 to 1990. It is unclear whether the move can be implemented or is largely symbolic, but it marks an escalation in tensions within the Saudi-led coalition fighting Iran-backed Houthi rebels.

Last month STC-linked fighters seized two southern provinces and took over the presidential palace in Aden, forcing the internationally recognised government to relocate to Riyadh. Saudi forces have since bombed STC camps and positions, and struck what they said was a shipment of Emirati weapons bound for the separatists.

The UAE said it was withdrawing its troops from Yemen shortly after the STC announcement and described its approach as one of "restraint, coordination, and a deliberate commitment to de-escalation".

Key Topics

Sports, United States, World, Yemen, Separatists, Uae, Saudi Arabia