Saudi-UAE relations have significant implications for Yemens internationally recognized government

Saudi Arabia’s Strike on Yemeni Port Sparks Tensions with UAE

A recent incident involving Saudi Arabia has triggered tensions with its partner in the Arab coalition in Yemen, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Two ships carrying over 80 vehicles and containers of weapons and ammunition entered the port of Mukalla without informing Saudi Arabia or the internationally recognized Yemeni government. The spokesman for the coalition, Major-General Turki al-Maliki, stated that this action was taken by the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC).

The STC is a separatist political and military force seeking an independent state in southern Yemen. The conflict between Saudi Arabia and the UAE has been escalating since the formation of the STC in 2017. In December, STC forces crossed red lines by controlling all southern governorates, including Hadramout and al-Mahra governorates.

The incident has highlighted serious differences between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with implications for Yemen’s future. The Yemeni government is divided into two factions, each loyal to one party in this conflict. The difference had been simmering for years but exploded publicly over the past few days.

The STC forces are seeking an independent state in southern Yemen, which was part of South Yemen from 1967 to 1990. Hadramout governorate is also economically significant due to its oil and gas resources and related infrastructure, as well as a vital border crossing with Saudi Arabia.

The latest public fallout between Saudi Arabia and the UAE will have a significant impact on Yemen’s situation politically, economically, and militarily. The eight-member Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), an internationally recognized body, is already divided into camps loyal to Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Source: Al Jazeera