Saudi-Led Coalition Conducts Airstrikes in Yemen After STC Leader Fails to Attend Peace Talks

The Saudi-led coalition has conducted airstrikes in Yemen's southern Al-Dhale governorate after Aidarous al-Zubaidi, leader of the Southern Transitional Council (STC), failed to attend scheduled peace talks in Riyadh.

According to coalition spokesperson Major General Turki al-Malki, al-Zubaidi was expected to board a flight from Aden to Riyadh but did not appear and "fled to an unknown location."

During this period, intelligence indicated that al-Zubaidi mobilized a significant force, including armored vehicles and various weapons, moving them towards Al-Dhale. In response, the coalition launched preemptive strikes at 4:00 AM local time to prevent further escalation.

The STC, backed by the United Arab Emirates, has been seeking an independent southern state, leading to tensions with Yemen's internationally recognized government and its Saudi allies.

In a related development, Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council, led by Rashad al-Alimi, announced the removal of al-Zubaidi from the council, accusing him of "committing high treason."

The STC has not issued an immediate response to these developments.