Saudi Arabia Attacks UAE-Backed Group

International Desk

The Middle East’s complex politics have been fueled by new tensions in Yemen, with the Saudi-led coalition recently carrying out airstrikes on positions and supplies of the United Arab Emirates-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) in southern Yemen.

From December 2025 to January 2026, STC forces rapidly advanced and took control of several areas in southern Yemen, including Hadramaut and Mahrah provinces. At that time, Saudi Arabia alleged that weapons and military vehicles were being sent to the STC from the UAE. The Saudi air force attacked one such shipment at the port of Mukalla. The Saudi side said that the weapons were a threat to their national security.

Following the attack, the UAE announced the withdrawal of its remaining troops from Yemen. Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces also launched an operation to retake some areas held by the STC. The conflict between the two Gulf allies has exposed the cracks in their long-standing alliance. Saudi Arabia wants a united Yemen, while the UAE has been supporting separatist groups in the south.

Analysts say the incident has further complicated the balance of power in the Middle East and the Yemen crisis. The international community has called on both sides to exercise restraint.