Yemen's main separatist group, the Southern Transitional Council, is set to dismantle its institutions effective Friday. The announcement follows weeks of unrest in southern Yemen and comes a day after its leader fled to the UAE. The council's secretary-general cited internal disagreements and regional pressure. However, the council's spokesman contested the decision, highlighting internal divisions. The turmoil follows STC forces seizing oil-rich areas and facilities in Yemen's south last month, which strained relations with the Saudi-led coalition. Saudi officials welcomed the group's dissolution, viewing it as a step toward resolving the southern issue.
