The Saudi Arabian military launched an airstrike on the port city of Mukalla in southern Yemen, stating the operation aimed to destroy weapons and military equipment sent from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to support the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC). A statement warned the UAE directly that such actions are leading to an "extremely dangerous" situation.
The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported, citing the military's statement, that the operation followed the discovery that a cargo ship arriving from the UAE's Fujairah port had switched off its tracking system and covertly transported weapons and numerous armored vehicles to the STC.
The Saudi military described these weapons as an imminent threat and an escalation that undermines peace. It decided to conduct a limited nighttime airstrike to avoid civilian casualties. Analysts noted the main target was the ship "Greenland," registered in Saint Kitts, which departed the UAE on 22 December.
Although Saudi Arabia and the UAE are close allies on many issues and members of OPEC, in the Yemen war they support opposing factions fighting the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. This conflict underscores competition for influence over the Red Sea region and diverging economic policies between the two countries.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued its first direct criticism of the UAE, accusing it of backing separatist forces to advance territorial gains, a risky action that threatens regional stability.
Following the attack, Yemen's anti-Houthi forces declared a state of emergency and ordered all Emirati troops to leave Yemen within 24 hours. They also suspended cross-border travel, ports, and airports for 72 hours unless authorized by Saudi Arabia.
As tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE escalate, the Red Sea region remains volatile. Reports indicate Israel became the first state in 30 years to recognize the independence of Somaliland, angering the Houthi rebels who threatened to attack Israeli targets in the area immediately.
Moreover, the proxy conflict between Saudi Arabia and the UAE is evident in Sudan, where both back opposing sides, further destabilizing the Middle East and East Africa regions.