LOC20:40
17:40 GMT
ADEN, Jan 4 (KUNA) -- Yemeni government forces have regained control of the strategic governorate of Hadramout in a military operation backed by the Saudi-led forces to restore legitimacy in Yemen, announced Hadramout Governor Salem Al-Khanabshi on Sunday.
In a press statement upon arrival at Seiyun Airport in Hadramout, Al-Khanabshi announced that the eastern province has been retaken, turning over a "fresh white chapter of modern history".
"The handover - by the sons of Hadramout and Homeland Shield Forces - of security tasks (in Hadramout) is not a triumph by one party over another, rather, it is a triumph for the logic of the state, security and stability," he said.
Shortly after its recapture, Al- Khanabshi announced the resumption of his duties administering the province from the city of Seiyun.
Head of Yemen's internationally recognized government Rashad Al-Alimi had issued a decree appointing Al- Khanabshi to command the Homeland Shield forces in Hadramout, granting him full military and security authority in the governorate.
Earlier in the day, the Homeland Shield forces took control of Al-Mukalla, the center of Hadramout Governorate, and Al-Rayyan Airport and all military and governmental facilities as well as the Presidential Palace. (end)
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