Yemen’s STC Condemns Arrest Campaign Targeting Southern Activists and Journalists

Aden — The Southern Transitional Council (STC) has strongly condemned what it described as ongoing arbitrary arrests and unlawful pursuits targeting southern activists and journalists in Shabwa governorate.

In a statement issued by the local executive authority, the STC said the campaign reflects a repressive approach aimed at silencing free voices supportive of the southern cause, carried out by Saudi guardianship authorities in violation of freedom of expression and international law.

The statement stressed that intimidation and targeting of activists and journalists will not break the will of the southern people or deter them from pursuing their national struggle, but will instead strengthen their commitment to restoring a fully sovereign state.

The STC accused the authorities of double standards, tolerating platforms that attack the council and incite against the southern national project, while swiftly arresting and prosecuting southern voices defending their people’s rights.

The council’s executive authority declared:

Strong condemnation of arbitrary arrests and demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained southern activists and journalists.

Absolute rejection of the double-standard policy, holding Saudi guardianship authorities fully responsible for the consequences of continued targeting of southern political and media communities.

Affirmation that targeting activists, journalists, or national symbols represents a dangerous escalation that will not undermine southern unity or resolve.

Call on human rights organizations, journalist unions, and international bodies concerned with freedom of expression to monitor, condemn, and pressure for an end to these violations and ensure protection of public freedoms.