Aden: Military Deployment Surrounds Al-Tawahi Ahead of Protests

Security forces and military reinforcements were deployed extensively in the streets and entrances of Al-Tawahi district in the temporary Yemeni capital, Aden, on Tuesday evening, hours before a demonstration called for by the Southern Transitional Council. The significant military presence has raised concerns of potential confrontations.

The reinforcements, including military vehicles and personnel, were stationed in key areas of the district. An security official stated that these measures are intended to secure government facilities and vital sites, and to prevent any potential clashes between demonstrators and the forces tasked with protecting these locations. The protest is scheduled for Wednesday morning in front of the National Assembly and the Council of Advisors buildings in Al-Tawahi.

Tensions have been escalating in the region since March, when the government issued directives to close several council-affiliated headquarters in Al-Tawahi, asserting they were government property. These included the Customs Department and the Yemen News Agency headquarters, which further heightened the unrest.

Local sources indicated that the deployed forces comprise personnel from the Giants Brigades and the National Security apparatus, as part of a plan to bolster stability and prevent any disturbances. In a statement issued early Wednesday, the Aden Security Committee urged citizens to gather for peaceful demonstrations at the Al-Orouud Square in Khormaksar district, deeming it the most suitable location for large crowds and participant safety, while warning against any acts that could compromise security.

Concerns are mounting over a potential recurrence of past events. In late February, clashes in the Sirah district between protesters and security forces resulted in one fatality and dozens of injuries, following an attempt by demonstrators to breach security barriers around the Ma'ashiq Palace.

The local authority in Aden had previously issued official directives in January to prohibit all demonstrations, gatherings, or public events in any district of the city. These directives stipulated that any potential activities must be confined solely to Al-Orouud Square in Khormaksar district, as a temporary precautionary measure amidst a critical security situation.