Aden -- The Yemen-based branch of Al-Qaeda, known as Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), has formally announced the death of one of its prominent leaders, Abu al-Haija al-Hadidi, also identified as Munir al-Ahdal.

According to statements released by the group, al-Hadidi was killed in Marib province, northeastern Yemen, following a drone strike that targeted his motorcycle in Wadi Obadiah. 

Local sources reported that the strike also killed one of his companions. The attack is widely believed to have been carried out by a U.S. drone, though AQAP did not specify the perpetrator in its statement.

Al-Hadidi was considered a key figure within AQAP’s leadership structure, reportedly involved in coordinating militant operations and maintaining ties with other extremist factions in Yemen. 

His death marks a significant blow to the organization, which has faced increasing pressure from counterterrorism operations in recent months.