Exclusive Source to Yemen Monitor: Shabwa Defense Forces Withdraw from “Arin” Camp as Arrangements Made for “Nation Shield” Forces to Enter the Governorate

Yemen Monitor / Shabwa / Exclusive:

A special source told Yemen Monitor that Shabwa Defense Forces affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council (STC) have withdrawn from Arin Camp, located northeast of Shabwa Governorate, while another force inside the camp continues to refuse directives from the governor, Awad bin Al-Wazir, calling for a complete withdrawal.

The source explained that an agreement reached between the Yemeni presidency, the Arab Coalition, and the governor stipulates keeping the road open leading to the city of Ataq, while maintaining a symbolic force at some key locations in order to prevent chaos or security disruptions.

In the same context, the source confirmed that a military force affiliated with the “Nation Shield” forces has moved from the Al-Abr area toward Ataq, the capital of Shabwa Governorate, and is expected to arrive within the coming hours.

An informed source also revealed to Yemen Monitor that arrangements are underway for Nation Shield forces to enter Shabwa Governorate. Units are expected to be deployed at the Balhaf liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility, the Murrah Military Base established by the UAE, as well as several other vital installations in the oil-rich governorate.

According to the source, the agreement also includes keeping the Giants Brigades in their positions on the military fronts bordering Al-Bayda and Marib governorates, and continuing confrontations with the Houthi group along those frontlines.

Earlier today, Shabwa Governor Awad bin Al-Wazir held a meeting with the Security Committee to discuss recent developments. Photos also circulated showing the Yemeni flag being raised over public institutions across the governorate, while the secessionist flag was taken down.

Previously, on January 1, Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council Rashad Al-Alimi visited Shabwa Governorate, a move that was then seen as a declaration of rejection of entrenchment alongside the Southern Transitional Council. Hours later, Governor bin Al-Wazir announced his support for the presidential measures and acceptance of handing over the governorate to the Nation Shield forces.