Saudi Airstrikes Hit UAE-Backed Forces in Yemen, 20 Killed

Saudi Arabia: On Friday, Saudi Arabia carried out air strikes on the positions of the separatist organization Southern Transitional Council (STC) in southern Yemen. At least 20 people died, and many others were injured in these attacks. The attack came at a time when the Saudi-backed Yemeni government had asked the UAE to leave the country.

Where did the attacks occur most?

According to local STC leader Mohammad Abdul Malik, the Al-Khassah military camp in the Wadi Hadhramaut area was targeted. There were air strikes here seven times. Apart from this, bombs were also dropped on other nearby locations.

Why did tension increase between Saudi Arabia and the UAE?

Saudi Arabia is supporting the government of President Rashad al-Alimi in Yemen. At the same time, the UAE has been supporting STC activities in southern Yemen. STC wants to make Southern Yemen a separate country. The different thinking of both the countries has now come to the fore.

Why is Saudi Arabia worried about the capture of Hadhramaut and Mahara?

In December, STC took control of large parts of Hadhramaut and Mahra provinces. These areas are adjacent to the Saudi border. Riyadh fears that the presence of STC here could become a threat to its security.

What steps did the Saudi coalition take there?

Before the attacks, the Saudi coalition's National Shield Forces had said it would take control of military bases in Hadhramaut. A source associated with the Saudi Army said that this action will continue until the STC retreats.

What are the allegations regarding arbitration?

The Saudi ambassador to Yemen alleged that the STC chief did not allow the Saudi mediation team to land in the city of Aden. This made the situation worse.

How did STC react to the attacks?

Mohammed al-Naqeeb, a spokesman for the STC-backed Southern Shield Forces, said Saudi Arabia is carrying out a major attack through external fighters. He compared the current situation to the Yemen civil war of 1994.

What is the matter with the earlier attack on Mukalla?

Earlier, the Saudi coalition had bombed Yemen's port city Mukalla. Saudi Arabia said that weapons were being sent there for STC. The UAE denied these allegations and said that it respects the security of Saudi Arabia.

What does this conflict in Yemen point towards?

Saudi Arabia wants to stop the Houthi rebels in Yemen, while the UAE has taken a separate hold in southern Yemen. Now the separate paths of both seem to be taking Yemen towards a new crisis.