Saudi-UAE Rift Escalates in Yemen

A major confrontation has erupted in Yemen as the Saudi-led coalition launched airstrikes against the United Arab Emirates (UAE)-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), killing at least seven separatist fighters. This action comes after the STC seized control of Hadramawt and Mahra provinces last month, angering Saudi Arabia. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government initiated a 'peaceful' operation to retake military sites, which was immediately followed by the airstrikes. The Southern Transitional Council (STC) has declared an 'existential war' against Saudi-backed forces, accusing Saudi Arabia of deception. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced the withdrawal of its remaining troops from Yemen following a Saudi-led coalition bombardment of an alleged Emirati weapons shipment. The conflict has also led to the disruption of operations at Aden International Airport, with the Southern Transitional Council (STC) blocking a Saudi delegation and Saudi Arabia demanding security checks on flights to and from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This escalation highlights a significant rift between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), who have historically supported rival factions in Yemen's civil war against the Houthis.