Security forces disperse STC protest in Yemen, resulting in one fatality and 11 injuries

Security Forces Engage Protesters in Aden Palace

A protest erupted outside the al-Maashiq Presidential Palace in Aden on Thursday after Prime Minister Shaya Mohsen al-Zindani held the first meeting of the internationally recognized government. The gathering took place amid opposition demonstrations, according to reports from the Saba News Agency.

According to eyewitnesses, security personnel responded to armed protesters attempting to enter the area with live ammunition and other force. At least one person was killed and 11 others were wounded in the incident, which was captured on exclusive footage obtained by Al Jazeera.

The Aden Governorate Security Committee released a statement saying that security forces acted in accordance with the law after identifying individuals attempting to carry out acts of sabotage. The committee stated that it would not tolerate involvement in chaotic incidents or attacks against security personnel.

The Southern Transitional Council (STC), which is backed by the United Arab Emirates, condemned what it described as excessive use of force and live ammunition against demonstrators. The group called for an investigation into the incident and appealed to the international community to address “systematic repression” against people in southern governorates.

The STC announced its refusal to recognize the legitimacy of the newly formed government on Friday, describing its presence in Aden as a “de facto authority” lacking political support. The group stated that the government does not represent the will of the people of the South and warned that any official government presence would not translate into political obligations for southern representatives.

The incident marks the latest escalation in Yemen’s ongoing conflict, which began in 2014 when Houthi rebels captured much of the country.

Source: Al Jazeera