Rising tensions between the government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi and southern secessionists are distracting from the war against Houthis across northern Yemen. Analysts suggest that, if the conflict between the Southern Transitional Council (STC) and the government continues, it may force the coalition to rely further on airstrikes to contain Houthi elements, increasing the cost of the war effort and risking further civilian casualties. Without further action, sources close to the Guards of the Republic tell GSN they fear the strategic port city of Hodeida may fall to the Houthis once again.