Yemen: Hundreds of recruits withdraw from Saudi-aligned military fronts

Hundreds of recruits have reportedly abandoned Saudi-aligned military camps and combat fronts across Yemen, including Marib, the West Coast, and Midi, returning to their home regions. This wave of withdrawals follows calls from leaders within the Southern Transitional Council (STC) urging personnel to leave positions that serve foreign interests.

Sources indicate that many of those leaving are from Aden, Lahj, and Dhale, driven by a growing conviction that the conflict against Sanaa does not serve the interests of southern and eastern provinces. The movement coincides with increased civil unrest and protests in southern areas, where demonstrators have criticized Saudi influence over local economic and service conditions.

Reports suggest that pro-Saudi factions have responded to these withdrawals by arresting some recruits who refused to continue their service. The desertions are not limited to southern provinces; large numbers of recruits from northern provinces have also left, many of whom had originally joined due to economic hardship.