Yemen's Saudi-backed government has appointed Hadramout Governor Salem Ahmed Saeed al-Khunbashi to lead "Homeland Shield" forces, granting him broad authority to restore security and order in the eastern province. The operation targets military sites and is not a declaration of war. This move follows recent escalations in southern Yemen, including the UAE-backed STC's seizure of government-controlled areas and a public disagreement between Saudi Arabia and the UAE over troop withdrawal and the STC's actions.