Tensions Spike: UAE To Withdraw Forces As Saudi Bombs Yemen Port Over 'Arms' Claim

UAE: Amidst the increasing tension in Yemen, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) decided on Tuesday that it will voluntarily withdraw its troops from Saudi Arabia. This decision has come just after the incident when the Saudi Army launched an air attack on Yemen's Mukalla port. Saudi claims that weapons sent from the UAE had arrived there. The UAE said that in the current situation, this step has become necessary considering the security and effectiveness of the missions.

Was the UAE really sending weapons?

The UAE vehemently denied the Saudi allegation. Abu Dhabi said that the container in question did not contain weapons but vehicles and equipment, which were for the use of UAE soldiers deployed there. The UAE also reiterated that it respects Yemen's sovereignty and its role is limited to counter-terrorism operations only.

What happened in Mukalla?

As soon as the ship that departed from Fujairah port of the UAE reached Mukalla, Saudi immediately attacked. The Saudis suspected that the UAE was helping the Southern Transitional Council (STC) operating in the south. STC has been demanding making Southern Yemen a separate country for the last several years. Following the attack, more airstrikes were carried out in the city.

Who with whom within Yemen?

• STC gets UAE support
• Yemeni army and local tribal groups side with Saudi

This month, STC has increased its occupation of important areas like Hadhramaut and Mahara. These areas are very important in terms of oil reserves and sea routes. The Saudis saw this as a warning signal and bombed in response.

What will be its further impact?

The withdrawal of the UAE shows that now the differences between the two countries regarding Yemen are coming to the fore. This step could have a direct impact on Yemen's peace talks and future politics. By strengthening the position of STC, it may be in a position to make bigger demands in any future talks.

This tension between Yemen, oil routes, and sea lanes has become not just a dispute between two countries but an issue related to the stability of the entire Middle East.