The political unrest in Yemen intensified throughout 2011 as citizens mobilized in protests demanding the resignation of President Ali Abdullah Saleh, who had been in power for over three decades. The demonstrations were driven by widespread social discontent, economic challenges, and the desire for democratic reforms. Inspired by the broader Arab Spring movement, which had swept through several countries in the region earlier that year, Yemenis took to the streets in droves, calling for an end to Saleh's authoritarian regime. The protests often faced violent crackdowns by government forces, leading to numerous casualties and injuries among civilians.

International actors, including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), intervened to find a resolution to the escalating crisis. After numerous attempts at negotiations, the GCC proposed a deal that would enable Saleh to transfer power without facing legal repercussions. On this significant day, the agreement was signed, stating that Saleh would hand over authority to Vice President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi. This transfer aimed to facilitate a peaceful transition and encourage stability in Yemen amidst ongoing turmoil.

The agreement included stipulations for a national dialogue and a roadmap towards elections, addressing the concerns raised by protesters. However, the situation in Yemen continued to be precarious, and the deal did not prevent the subsequent outbreak of civil conflict, which would further complicate the political landscape in the years that followed. Saleh's immunity from prosecution sparked debates about justice and accountability for the violence that characterized his rule.