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Mapping Who Controls What in Yemen in 2026
Overview
Yemen remains divided in 2026 as rival groups continue to fight for power. Control over key regions has shifted in recent months. As a result, political tensions have increased and the humanitarian crisis has worsened.
This article explains who controls different parts of Yemen, the main groups involved, and how the conflict affects civilians.
Recent Developments in Southern Yemen
In early 2026, Yemen’s internationally recognised government said it had regained control of two key southern provinces. These provinces are Hadramout and al Mahra. They were taken in December 2025 by the Southern Transitional Council, also known as the STC.
Because the provinces border Saudi Arabia and contain oil resources, the takeover raised security concerns. Consequently, Saudi Arabia carried out air strikes on STC positions. Some strikes targeted areas near the port city of Mukalla.
These events caused a major split between the government and the STC. Although both groups had worked together before, their alliance has now collapsed.
The Main Groups Fighting in Yemen
Presidential Leadership Council PLC
The Presidential Leadership Council is Yemen’s recognised governing authority. It is backed by Saudi Arabia and operates from Aden. The council was formed in 2022 to unite groups opposing the Houthis.
However, tensions rose in January 2026. The PLC expelled STC leaders after they attempted to seize eastern provinces. Since then, the council has said its focus is restoring state control and pushing for a lasting ceasefire.
Southern Transitional Council STC
The STC is a southern separatist group supported by the United Arab Emirates. Its goal is to create an independent southern state. This would be similar to South Yemen before unification in 1990.
In January 2026, the government accused STC leaders of treason. Soon after, reports emerged that the group had disbanded. However, STC officials inside Yemen denied this claim. As a result, the future of the group remains unclear.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is holding talks with southern political groups to shape the region’s political direction.
Houthi Movement
The Houthis, also known as Ansar Allah, control large parts of northern and western Yemen. This includes the capital city, Sanaa. The group is backed by Iran and has played a central role in the conflict since 2014.
In addition, the Houthis control key Red Sea ports, including Hodeidah. This gives them influence over major global shipping routes. Since late 2023, they have also carried out attacks on ships and targets linked to Israel.
Who Controls What in Yemen
Currently, the Houthis control most of northwestern Yemen. This includes Sanaa and much of the Red Sea coast. On the other hand, the Yemeni government controls most eastern and southern regions.
However, STC forces are still present in some southern areas. Although the government has announced plans to unite all anti Houthi forces under one military, the process has not started yet.
Yemen’s Humanitarian Crisis
Yemen continues to face one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Years of war have damaged the economy, health system and basic services. As a result, millions of people struggle to survive.
According to the United Nations
• About 17 million people face serious food shortages
• Nearly 5 million are in crisis or emergency food conditions
• Around 11 million children need humanitarian assistance
• Almost 5 million people have been displaced since 2015
Although fighting reduced after a 2022 truce, access to aid remains limited in many areas.
Conclusion
In 2026, Yemen remains unstable. Power struggles continue between rival groups, while regional tensions add pressure. At the same time, civilians continue to suffer the most.
Until lasting political solutions are reached, Yemen’s humanitarian emergency is expected to continue.
Source Attribution
This report is based on verified information and analysis originally published by Al Jazeera.
