Tribal gunmen in Shabwah Governorate have halted the movement of gas trucks and tankers destined for Marib Governorate. The action follows the establishment of a tribal checkpoint on the outskirts of the city of Ataq, according to local sources. This development signals a potential escalation that could impact energy supply routes between governorates. Sources indicated that the gunmen prevented several gas tankers heading to Marib from passing. Those responsible for the blockade described the measure as an act of "reciprocity," in response to previous tribal checkpoints in Marib Governorate that targeted gas and fuel tankers bound for the southern governorates. This development occurs amidst ongoing tensions related to the transportation of oil derivatives and gas between Yemeni governorates. Previous seizures of tankers have led to fuel supply disruptions, affected the operation of power generation stations and transportation, and directly impacted the living conditions of residents. Local sources and observers have warned that the continuation of mutual tanker seizures could exacerbate the fuel and domestic gas crisis in the targeted areas and further complicate supply movements between governorates, at a time when the country faces increasing economic and humanitarian challenges. |
