Aden protests turn violent as demonstrators attack security forces

A video of a protest organized by the dissolved Southern Transitional Council in Aden sparked outrage after participants threw stones at security personnel, used profanity and made blasphemous remarks. Witnesses said the crowd moved beyond peaceful demonstration, physically assaulting police and insulting religious values, prompting calls for swift investigations and punitive measures.

At the same time, large convoys of council supporters from Lahj, Shabwah, Abyan and other areas began marching toward Aden to join a planned rally against the Saudi‑backed “guardianship”. Saudi forces deployed vehicles and armored units around the Khur Makassar area to block the demonstrators and announced the deployment of the “Giants” and “Security Belt” militias to disperse the gathering. The protest is also linked to recent Saudi actions targeting council leader Idris Al‑Zubidi, including sanctions proposals and asset freezes.

Local residents expressed anger at the violence, urging authorities to hold those responsible accountable and to protect public order while preserving the right to peaceful expression.