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The tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE escalated due to accusations from Saudi Arabia that the UAE was supporting separatist forces in Yemen, specifically the Southern Transitional Council. This group has been advancing in the conflict against the Houthi rebels, and Saudi Arabia views the Emirati backing as undermining its efforts to stabilize Yemen and maintain its influence in the region.
The bombing of Mukalla port by Saudi Arabia signifies a new escalation in Yemen's civil war. It highlights the fragmentation of alliances, as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, previously allies in the anti-Houthi coalition, now find themselves on opposing sides. This division complicates efforts to achieve peace and could lead to further violence, as competing factions vie for control and legitimacy.
Separatists, particularly the Southern Transitional Council, play a crucial role in the Yemeni conflict by challenging the internationally recognized government supported by Saudi Arabia. Backed by the UAE, these forces seek greater autonomy for southern Yemen, complicating the existing conflict dynamics. Their actions often undermine Saudi Arabia's objectives, leading to increased hostilities.
The UAE's involvement in Yemen began in 2015 as part of a Saudi-led coalition aimed at restoring the Yemeni government after the Houthi takeover. Over time, the UAE shifted its focus to supporting local militias, particularly the Southern Transitional Council, to secure its interests in southern Yemen. This dual role has created friction with Saudi Arabia, which seeks a unified Yemeni government.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as well as the humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict in Yemen. Various countries and organizations have called for de-escalation and dialogue, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive peace process to address the root causes of the conflict and alleviate the humanitarian crisis.
The rising tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE threaten regional stability by potentially igniting further conflicts within Yemen and straining relations among Gulf Cooperation Council members. This discord can embolden other actors, like Iran, and lead to a more fragmented Middle East, complicating efforts for a unified approach to security and economic cooperation in the region.
The weapons allegedly shipped from the UAE to Yemen include arms and combat vehicles intended for the Southern Transitional Council. These shipments have raised concerns for Saudi Arabia, which accuses the UAE of undermining its military objectives by providing support to separatist forces that threaten its interests and the stability of the Yemeni government.
The tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE complicate US interests in the region, as both countries are key allies in countering Iranian influence and maintaining stability. The US has historically supported the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, and discord between these allies could hinder coordinated efforts against terrorism and destabilizing activities in the Middle East.
The Yemeni government views the support for separatists by the UAE as a direct challenge to its authority and legitimacy. It seeks to maintain a unified Yemen and relies on Saudi Arabia for military and political backing. The government's position is that Emirati actions exacerbate the conflict and hinder peace efforts, as they fuel divisions among Yemeni factions.
Previous incidents that escalated tensions include the UAE's support for the Southern Transitional Council's military offensives against the Yemeni government and clashes between UAE-backed forces and Saudi-backed troops. Additionally, accusations of arms shipments and the UAE's withdrawal of troops have contributed to the growing rift, undermining the coalition's unity against Houthi forces.
