By Salma El-Sakka
Yemen's UN-recognized government has overhauled its political and military leadership in a bid to reverse territorial losses to Houthi fighters and lift the month-long siege of Taiz, the country's third-largest city.
Counteroffensive Stalls as Houthis Approach Aden
A counteroffensive launched on Oct. 5 aimed at liberating the country from Houthi control has stalled, leaving thousands dead. Saudi air superiority has not translated into ground progress, with Houthi forces now about 37 miles (60 km) from Aden, the government's nominal seat.
Political Reshuffle Brings Southern Figures into Cabinet
President Rashad al-Alimi dismissed information minister Muammar al-Eryani, replacing him with Prof. Salem al-Awlaki, a former civil service minister and spokesperson for the Southern Transitional Council (STC) from 2017 to 2019. Two other southerners were appointed as ministers for local administration and civil service, while new leaders were named for the civil aviation authority, Aden ports, and the transport ministry.
Military Command Overhauled on Taiz Front
Al-Alimi also removed Yusuf al-Sharaji, commander of the Taiz front, and Brig. Gen. Abu Bakr al-Jabouli, responsible for the Tor al-Baha axis, following accusations of operational failures that led to areas falling to the Houthis. Maj. Gen. Rashad al-Yousfi, a career officer, was tasked with lifting the Taiz siege and coordinating forces.
Southern Separatist Influence and Inter-Faction Tensions
The reshuffle reflects pressure from southern Yemenis for greater influence. The STC, which seeks a return to pre-1990 division or a federated state, has grown critical of Saudi Arabia. Southern troops, essential to the government's defense, insist on fighting only within former South Yemen. Tensions between the Southern Giants and the Saudi-funded Homeland Shield Forces have complicated operations near the strategic Bab al-Mandab strait.
Riyadh-Based Leadership Faces 'Hotel Government' Criticism
Much of the UN-backed leadership operates from hotels in Riyadh, reliant on Saudi funding for salaries, prompting critics to label it a "hotel government." The presidential leadership council met in Riyadh this week for the first time in months to address the loss of territory along the western coast.
