Barran Press
Security checkpoints operated by the Southern Transitional Council (STC) are reportedly preventing travelers originating from Taiz from entering the key southern port city of Aden.
According to local sources, the restrictions began on Saturday morning in the al-Farsha area of Tur al-Bahah district, situated in western Lahj province. Buses and other vehicles carrying passengers from Taiz were allegedly stopped and forced to turn back at these checkpoints. As of yet, no official justification has been provided for these actions.
The sources further indicated that armed individuals belonging to the STC-affiliated Security Belt forces reportedly harassed some passengers, including women, compelling them to return.
Eyewitnesses have strongly criticized this behavior, labeling it "irresponsible" and cautioning that it benefits only the Iran-backed Houthis. They are urging the internationally recognized government to intervene and put an end to what they perceive as discriminatory practices that threaten the unity and sacrifices made by the people of Aden and Lahj.
Notably, this is not the first instance of such restrictions. The STC has reportedly imposed similar limitations on the movement of travelers from northern governorates in the past, particularly on routes leading to Aden and the eastern regions of Yemen. Analysts suggested these actions are part of a larger strategy by the STC to isolate Aden and diminish northern influence in the south