Background on Key Players and Context
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced the withdrawal of its remaining forces from Yemen, deepening the crisis with Saudi Arabia and marking a new phase in the deterioration of relations between the two leading Gulf powers.
The UAE’s decision comes after Saudi Arabia backed the Emirati forces’ withdrawal from Yemen within 24 hours. Earlier, the Saudi-led military coalition conducted an airstrike against Mukalla port in southern Yemen, describing it as striking an arms shipment linked to the UAE. This marked the most significant escalation yet in their bilateral dispute.
Who are the Key Players?
The UAE and Saudi Arabia are the two most influential countries in the Gulf region. The UAE, a federation of seven emirates, has been actively involved in the Yemeni conflict since 2015 as part of a Saudi-led coalition. Saudi Arabia, the largest country in the Arab world, has long been a dominant regional power with significant influence over Gulf affairs.
Why is this Relevant?
The UAE and Saudi Arabia have been allies in the Yemeni conflict, but recent years have seen growing tensions between them. These differences stem from divergent interests in Yemen and disputes over energy and geopolitical influence. The UAE’s support for the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist Yemeni group, has further strained relations with Saudi Arabia.
Key Events and Developments
- Saudi Arabia’s Ultimatum: Saudi Arabia demanded the UAE withdraw its forces from Yemen within 24 hours, signaling a significant shift in their alliance.
- Airstrike on Mukalla: The Saudi-led coalition conducted an airstrike against Mukalla port, targeting what it claimed was an arms shipment linked to the UAE.
- UAE’s Withdrawal Announcement: The UAE announced the withdrawal of its remaining forces from Yemen, stating it was a voluntary decision to end their anti-terrorism mission.
Impact on Regional Dynamics
Several Gulf countries, including Kuwait and Bahrain, have expressed support for dialogue initiatives and a political solution to the conflict. Qatar emphasized that the security of Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations is intertwined with its own.
The growing tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia reflect deeper disagreements over Yemen’s future, energy policies, and geopolitical influence. Saudi Arabia has accused the UAE of backing separatist groups in Yemen, warning that any threat to its borders constitutes a “red line” for national security.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of the UAE’s withdrawal from Yemen?
The UAE’s decision to withdraw its remaining forces from Yemen marks a new phase in the deterioration of relations between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, deepening the crisis between the two Gulf powers. - Why did Saudi Arabia demand the UAE’s withdrawal from Yemen?
Saudi Arabia demanded the UAE’s withdrawal from Yemen within 24 hours due to growing tensions and divergent interests in the region, particularly regarding Yemen’s future. - What is the Southern Transitional Council (STC)?
The STC is a separatist Yemeni group backed by the UAE, which has contributed to tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia. - How have other Gulf countries responded to the escalating tensions?
Several Gulf countries, including Kuwait and Bahrain, have expressed support for dialogue initiatives and a political solution to the conflict between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
