Yemen: Pro-government groups stage demonstration on Socotra August 11

Event

Supporters of Yemen's internationally-recognized government gathered for a demonstration in Socotra's capital Hadibo on Tuesday, August 11, against the Southern Transitional Council's (STC's) control of the island. The protest, organized by the moderate separatist Southern National Coalition (SNC), called for the return of control of Socotra to the Aden-based Yemeni government.

Tuesday's demonstration is believed to have passed peacefully, but further protests and counter-demonstrations by STC supporters are possible in the area in the medium term.

Context

Nominally allies against the Houthis in Yemen's ongoing civil war, STC fighters have frequently clashed with government forces over control of southern Yemen since August 2019 and declared self-rule in Aden and other areas of southern Yemen in April. The STC seized control of Socotra in June, after ousting pro-government forces from Hadibo. However, the group subsequently rescinded their self-rule declaration on 29 July following a power-sharing agreement brokered by Saudi Arabia.

Advice

Those on Socotra are advised to monitor developments and avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings on the island.

Due to poor security conditions, many Western governments strongly advise their citizens against all travel to Yemen. Travel to the country should only be considered with proper security protocols in place. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.