Yemen's Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) revealed a new 35-member cabinet after weeks of talks in Riyadh. The new cabinet aims to lead the war-torn nation with members from various political and regional backgrounds. This announcement comes after the collapse of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) and the UAE military withdrawal from southern Yemen. The 10-member increase from the last cabinet reflects efforts to balance power among rival groups. Yemeni political researcher Yaseen Al-Tamimi said this large cabinet is “a forced return to the era of appeasement,” sharing power to unite different factions. Prime Minister Shaya Mohsen al-Zindani promised a focus on improving public services, fighting corruption, and restoring state institutions. Political journalist Mohammed Al-Samei called the appointed ministers competent but stressed that the cabinet’s success depends on strong political will and unity. Saudi Arabia’s financial backing, including a commitment to pay salaries in the south, is crucial for stability and service delivery. The new cabinet includes three women ministers: Afrah Al-Zuba (Planning), Ishraq Al-Maqatri (Legal Affairs), and Ahed Jaasous (Women’s Affairs). Activists see this as a positive step towards recognizing women’s role in politics. Despite these efforts, the south remains divided. Southern separatists reject the new government, insisting on independence. Tribal groups in Hadramout also oppose the cabinet, calling for self-governance and continued struggle against Saudi influence. The north remains under Houthi control, who refuse to recognize the PLC government, calling it illegitimate. A Houthi fighter said, “Any government imposed on the people by foreign players is illegitimate, and fighting it is a duty.” The new cabinet faces the challenges of rebuilding unity, overcoming political divisions, and addressing humanitarian crises affecting millions of Yemenis.