The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced on Tuesday its voluntary decision to end its remaining counterterrorism mission within the borders of Yemen, following rapid military developments that the UAE claims have directly affected the overall safety and effectiveness of its missions.
In a formal statement carried by the Emirati state news agency WAM, the Ministry of Defense clarified its position on the matter.
The ministry stated that it reached this decision “in light of recent developments and their potential implications for the safety and effectiveness of counterterrorism missions.”
Consequently, the termination of the remaining teams will occur in coordination with relevant partners while the leadership ensures personnel safety. However, the ministry did not provide a specific timeline or elaborate on when the final withdrawal would take place.
Saudi Arabia Defends National Security
Earlier on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia declared its national security a red line and used its strongest language yet against its neighbor. Riyadh alleged that the UAE had pressured southern separatists to conduct military operations that reached the borders of the Saudi Kingdom.
The Saudi-led coalition conducted an airstrike on Tuesday morning to target weapons and combat vehicles unloaded at the port of Mukalla. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the coalition accused the UAE of backing an offensive by the Southern Transitional Council (STC).
Following the strike, Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Rashad al-Alimi cancelled a joint defense agreement with the UAE on Tuesday. He ordered all Emirati military forces to withdraw from the country within twenty hours to restore the sovereign control of Yemen.
Escalating Regional Tensions
The Saudi Foreign Ministry described the recent actions of the UAE in Yemen as “extremely dangerous” for its “sisterly state.” While specific details remain unclear, observers are uncertain if any other military forces participated in the strike alongside the Saudi troops.
Currently, the Southern Transitional Council enjoys backing from the UAE, while the internationally-recognized presidential council receives its primary support from Riyadh.
This recent attack underscores the escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE as both nations support competing factions in Yemen. The situation remains fluid, and the international community expects further developments to emerge in the coming days across the region.
