Yemen’s main southern separatist group, the Southern Transitional Council (STC), announced it would dissolve its institutions following weeks of unrest and the flight of its leader to the United Arab Emirates.

The group’s secretary-general cited internal disputes and regional pressure, though the decision was disputed by an STC spokesman, underscoring deep divisions within the movement.

The turmoil followed STC military advances into oil-rich southern regions, which escalated tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Saudi-backed forces have since regained control of key areas seized by the STC, the AP has reported.

The announcement comes amid Yemen’s long-running civil war, in which Iran-aligned Houthis control much of the north while a regional coalition backs the internationally recognized government in the south.