UAE-backed separatists driven out as Hadi forces regain control over strategic airport

ADEN - Forces loyal to exiled former president Aden have taken control over Aden International Airport in eastern Aden province on Wednesday, in a surprisinly swift victory.

The Saudi-backed forces have also begun making incursions into the city's neighborhoods, driving the  UAE-backed Southern  Transitional Council into retreat.

According to local sources in the south, the forces took control of the airport after clashes with the STC in the vicinity of Al-Arish, east of the city. 

According to the sources, the forces are still advancing rapidly in the neighborhoods of Khor Makser and Kritter, where the presidential palace is located. 

According to local residents, limited clashes have also taken place between Hadi's forces and separatist groups in the Dar Saad area north of the city. 

In a related context, Hadi's Interior Ministry called on residents of Aden province to stay away from camp sites and clashes "in order to save their lives."

"The army forces have taken control of Abyan province and deployed there to maintain security and stability," the ministry's website quoted an official source as saying.