American Prestige Special - Who Controls Southern Yemen? w/ Annelle Sheline
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Dec 17, 2025 
Derek interviews Annelle Sheline, a research fellow at the Quincy Institute and expert on Gulf and Middle East affairs. They explore the Southern Transitional Council's recent territorial gains in Yemen and their impact on a fractured political landscape. Annelle discusses the historical roots of southern secessionism, the inefficacy of the Presidential Leadership Council, and the Emirati backing of STC forces. The conversation also covers the potential for long-term division between North and South Yemen and the strategic importance of the region's oil-rich provinces.
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PLC Is An Implausible Unity Project
- The Presidential Leadership Council bundles competing factions including STC and Islah, creating inherent dysfunction.
- Those conflicting goals make the IRG largely theoretical rather than a cohesive governing body.
Historical Roots Of Southern Secessionism
- South and North Yemen have distinct colonial and political histories that explain present cleavages.
- Southern grievances from resource distribution and 1994 defeat fuel persistent secessionist sentiment.
Local Autonomy Complicates STC Advance
- Hadramaut and al-Mahra enjoyed increased autonomy under Houthi dominance of the north.
- Local leaders resist Emirati/STC control after a period of self-rule, risking further conflict.