Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces attacked a separatist-held camp south of the Shabwa Province capital city of Ataq. They are claiming to have retaken the camps on Saturday, though signs are fighting continued on Sunday.
The Southern Transitional Council (STC), the South Yemen separatist movement, has taken over substantial territory in several provinces, Shabwa the most recent targets. UAE-backed forces contested the offensive against the camp.
Nine combatants were killed all told, and another 13 wounded. These clashes are part of a growing fight between Saudi Arabia and UAE forces inside southern Yemen, These nations had participated in the invasion of Yemen five years ago, but are increasingly at odds as to what the future of Yemen will be.
The STC controls the southern capital of Aden and the neighboring province of Abyan. Further territory in Shabwa has them in control of a substantial part of the former country of South Yemen, which they intend to declare independence.