The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced that it will withdraw its remaining military forces from Yemen, effectively ending its on-ground role in the country’s long-running conflict. The move comes amid rising tensions with Saudi Arabia and signals a new phase in shifting alliances within the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen .
In a statement, the UAE said it was voluntarily ending the mission of its specialised counter-terrorism units, which were the last Emirati forces still stationed in Yemen. Abu Dhabi said the decision was taken after reviewing recent developments and assessing the risks to its personnel. The UAE had already scaled back most of its military presence in Yemen in 2019, though it continued limited operations focused on counter-terrorism and security support .
The announcement followed a Saudi-led coalition airstrike on the Yemeni port city of Mukalla. Saudi Arabia said the strike targeted a shipment of weapons and military vehicles allegedly linked to the UAE and meant for the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a powerful southern Yemeni group backed by Abu Dhabi. The UAE rejected this claim, stating that the shipment was intended for its own forces and was not linked to any local faction .
Tensions escalated further when Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, which is supported by Saudi Arabia, cancelled a defence agreement with the UAE. The council also issued an ultimatum calling for Emirati forces to leave Yemen within 24 hours, declared a temporary state of emergency, and announced restrictions at ports and border crossings .
The developments highlight growing differences between Saudi Arabia and the UAE over the future of Yemen. While both countries were once key allies in the war against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement, they now appear divided over political and military strategies, particularly regarding southern Yemen and the role of the STC.
The UAE said it continues to respect Saudi Arabia’s security concerns and remains committed to regional stability. Diplomatic efforts are expected to continue as regional players try to prevent further escalation and push for a political settlement to end Yemen’s years-long conflict .
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