Escalating Tensions: UAE Withdraws Following Saudi Airstrike on Mukalla

Saudi Arabia has provided new insights into its coalition airstrike targeting Yemen's Mukalla port city, a move that has significantly increased tensions with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As a direct consequence, Abu Dhabi has declared the withdrawal of its forces from Yemen.

Details of the Coalition Strike

Major General Turki al-Maliki, the coalition spokesperson, unveiled images from the early Tuesday operation. He indicated that intelligence had identified two vessels at the port carrying over 80 vehicles packed with weapons and ammunition.

Saudi officials disclosed that the cargo was moved, along with Emirati personnel, to the al-Rayyan military base without any prior communication with Riyadh. Al-Maliki emphasized that the operation adhered strictly to the rules of engagement and did not cause civilian injuries.

UAE's Announcement to Withdraw

In the aftermath of the airstrike, the UAE announced it would conclude its counterterrorism mission in Yemen and pull out its remaining troops. This decision came in response to increasing pressure from Yemen’s recognized government, which urged Emirati forces to depart within a day, a request supported by Saudi Arabia.

The UAE’s Ministry of Defence stated they had reassessed the tactical situation and opted to end their military presence to ensure the effectiveness and safety of their personnel.

Divisions Over Southern Separatist Support

This airstrike has unmasked intensifying divisions within the Saudi-led coalition, originally assembled in 2015 to combat Yemen’s Houthi rebels. Riyadh has accused Abu Dhabi of supporting the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist faction pushing for southern Yemen's independence.

The STC, previously allied with the Saudi-backed government, has escalated military initiatives, capturing strategic territories in the Hadramout and Mahara provinces, which border Saudi Arabia. Riyadh views these developments as a direct threat to its national security.

Yemen Cancels Defence Agreement with UAE

After the Mukalla incident, the head of Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad al-Alimi, revoked a defense agreement with the UAE and ordered Emirati troops to evacuate, accusing the UAE of orchestrating and backing the STC's military actions against the state.

Saudi Arabia endorsed this directive and urged the UAE to cease any military and financial assistance to local groups in Yemen.

UAE's Denial of Allegations

The UAE dismissed allegations that the shipment was intended for the STC, clarifying that the cargo was meant exclusively for Emirati forces. Abu Dhabi reiterated its commitment to regional stability and its goals to prevent any further escalation.

Reactions from the Region and Beyond

Qatar expressed approval of the statements from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, emphasizing their dedication to regional stability and principles of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Meanwhile, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan engaged in discussions with senior officials from the United States and Pakistan regarding the ongoing developments.

Concerns Over Broader Implications

Experts caution that the rifts within the anti-Houthi coalition could jeopardize stabilization efforts in Yemen. Saudi scholar Hesham Alghannam pointed out that eastern Yemen poses a crucial national security issue for Riyadh due to its strategic value, resources, and ports.

He warned that any fragmented withdrawal might ultimately benefit the Houthis, as internal divisions among rival factions could grow.