Sharp Divisions Within the Saudi-backed Southern Transitional Council Revealed by Al-Zubaidi
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Aidarous al-Zubaidi, President of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council, highlighted political divisions within the “Presidential Leadership Council” of the Saudi-led coalition. Al-Zubaidi, currently in Washington, called for reforms within the council and emphasized the need for revenue generation independent of Saudi aid.
Despite coalition airstrikes on Sanaa forces, Al-Zubaidi acknowledged their military capabilities and criticized Russia and Iran for allegedly supplying high-quality weaponry. He indirectly condemned Sanaa’s missile strikes on Israel, linking them to the peace process.
Furthermore, Al-Zubaidi’s openness to establishing an Israeli embassy in Aden aligns with the normalization trend in Arab capitals. However, he maintains that normalization does not equate to abandoning the Palestinian cause.
Overall, Al-Zubaidi’s statements shed light on internal rifts within the coalition and geopolitical dynamics in the region.
YPA