The UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council’s (STC) December takeover of Hadramawt and Al-Mahra precipitated a massive shift in Yemen’s political and security landscape. After nearly a month of failed negotiations, Saudi-backed forces counterattacked and, aided by local tribesmen and air support, found quick success. STC-affiliated forces were forced to retreat to Aden before ultimately ceding control of the interim capital. STC…