Yemeni separatists seize island of Socotra from Saudi-backed government

News: Yemen separatists have seized control of Socotra Island deposing its governor and driving out forces of the Saudi-backed government.

Facts:

  • Socotra Island: It is part of the North Indian Ocean located between the Guardafui Channel and the Arabian Sea.
  • The island is officially part of Yemen and sits at the mouth of the Gulf of Aden.
  • In 2008, it was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.