STC captures Seiyun, cutting off Yemeni government from Indian Ocean

STC Captures Seiyun, Cutting Off Yemeni Government from Indian Ocean

On December 4, 2025, the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a political entity backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), successfully seized control of Seiyun, the capital of the Hadhramaut province in Yemen. This strategic victory has significant implications for the ongoing Yemeni Civil War, as it effectively severed the internationally recognized Yemeni government"s access to the Indian Ocean. The Yemeni government, represented by the Yemeni Armed Forces (YAF), is supported by Saudi Arabia.

Key Details

The STC"s offensive in Hadhramaut marks a pivotal moment in the conflict, as it highlights the shifting power dynamics within Yemen. The Hadhramaut province, known for being the least populated region in the country, is predominantly desert, which facilitated the rapid advance of STC troops. The lack of significant civilian presence and infrastructure in the area allowed the STC to maneuver more easily compared to other, more densely populated regions.

By advancing along the coastline and reaching the Omani border, the STC has effectively cut off the Yemeni government"s access to vital maritime routes. This territorial change not only consolidates the STC"s power in the south but also raises questions about the future governance of Yemen. The capture of Seiyun is seen as a step closer to the potential partition of Yemen into two separate states, mirroring the pre-unification status of North and South Yemen before their union in 1990.

Background

The Yemeni Civil War, which began in 2014, has seen various factions vying for control, leading to a complex and multifaceted conflict. The STC emerged as a significant player in the southern regions of Yemen, advocating for greater autonomy and control over southern territories. The group"s ties to the UAE have been a point of contention, as the UAE has been involved in the conflict primarily to counter Iranian influence in the region and to support its own strategic interests.

The Yemeni government, on the other hand, has relied heavily on Saudi support, which has included military assistance and economic aid. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with millions of Yemenis facing food insecurity and lack of access to basic services.

What"s Next

The successful capture of Seiyun by the STC is likely to escalate tensions between the southern and northern factions of Yemen. As the STC consolidates its hold on southern territories, the prospect of a formal partition of Yemen into two states becomes increasingly plausible. This development could lead to further instability in the region, as both the Yemeni government and the STC may seek to solidify their respective claims to power.

As previously reported, the situation in Yemen remains fluid, with ongoing military engagements and shifting alliances. The international community continues to monitor the developments closely, as the implications of the STC"s actions could have far-reaching consequences not only for Yemen but also for regional stability in the Arabian Peninsula.

For more information on related developments, see our coverage on the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council reaching the Oman border.