The Dream Of South Yemen
A unique and exclusive on the ground view of one week in the battle for Aden. Renowned Guardian journalist Ghaith Abdulahad reports on South Yemen's fight for independence.
On the ground during the crucial week that decided South Yemen's fate. We follow the iconic battle for Aden airport which reignited the dream for independence. This exclusive report remains illustrative of the political struggle today. Abdulrahim al-Awlaqi is a commander of the secessionist group, the Herak. "We used to have our own country. Now we want it back". He is trying to organise the secession from the front line. Like so many others, al-Awlaqi too went from peaceful to armed resistance. Following al-Awlaqi, the film captures the moments in which the hope of a nation briefly blossomed then shattered once more. From the midst of the battle zone we witness, amidst the smoke and explosions, first euphoria and then despondency as it all collapses. Within days southern fighters fracture along sectarian lines, leaving behind chaos and disillusion. "Everyone wanted to be the ultimate leader, but no one controlled more than two streets", says Ghaith. "The collapse of Aden... happened from within. Because like a house of cards, it was built on nothing."
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