Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Saudi Arabia has disclosed new information regarding the coalition's airstrike on Yemen's Mukalla port, which has significantly escalated tensions with the UAE and prompted Abu Dhabi to declare a full withdrawal of its forces from Yemen.
Coalition spokesperson Major-General Turki al-Maliki confirmed that the airstrike occurred early on Tuesday, following intelligence that indicated two ships arriving at Mukalla carried over 80 vehicles and containers filled with weapons. Riyadh claims this shipment was associated with the UAE and intended for the Southern Transitional Council (STC), which is seeking greater autonomy in Yemen.
Al-Maliki remarked that Emirati forces had moved personnel and equipment to al-Rayyan airbase without prior coordination with Saudi Arabia, describing this as a violation of coalition protocols. He emphasized that Saudi-led forces followed strict rules of engagement, asserting that the operation caused no civilian casualties.
UAE Announces Withdrawal from Yemen
Following the airstrike, the UAE Ministry of Defence articulated its decision to conclude its 'counterterrorism' operations in Yemen. This choice came amid intensified pressure from Yemen’s internationally recognized government, which called for Emirati forces to withdraw within 24 hours—this demand received open support from Saudi Arabia.
The ministry stated, 'Given the recent developments and their potential effects on safety and operational effectiveness, the UAE has opted to cease its remaining counterterrorism presence in Yemen,' highlighting that the decision was made voluntarily for the safety of its personnel.
Rift Over the Southern Transitional Council
The Mukalla airstrike has revealed deepening rifts within the Saudi-led coalition, formed in 2015 to combat Yemen's Houthi rebels. Although the STC initially backed the Saudi-supported government, it has recently taken major military actions advocating for an independent southern state.
The STC has gained control over significant areas in southern Yemen, including strategically important provinces like Hadramout and Mahara, which are crucial to Saudi Arabia due to their geographic closeness. Riyadh has accused the UAE of influencing the STC’s military operations, viewing them as a direct threat to its national security.
Saudi Arabia expressed its disappointment over what it described as Emirati-supported actions that undermine de-escalation efforts, asserting that any threat to its security constitutes a 'red line.'
Yemen Terminates Defence Agreement with UAE
In light of these events, Yemeni Presidential Council leader Rashad al-Alimi has cancelled a defence pact with the UAE, ordering the withdrawal of Emirati forces within 24 hours. Yemeni state media has reported the imposition of a temporary no-fly zone and a blockade lasting 72 hours around critical ports.
Despite this pressure, the STC has rejected calls to withdraw from occupied territories, declaring its intention to defend its positions against any advancements.
Reactions from Region and Abroad
Qatar has welcomed statements from both Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, urging restraint and supporting Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) unity. Meanwhile, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to address ongoing regional issues.
The evolving crisis underscores the fragile alliances in Yemen's protracted conflict and raises new concerns about the future of collaboration among Gulf nations in the devastated country.
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