← WORLD 12/30/2025

A recent military action by Saudi Arabia against separatist forces in Yemen has triggered a significant shift in the country’s ongoing civil war and delivered a stark warning to the United Arab Emirates. The strike, targeting a port held by the Southern Transitional Council (STC) – a separatist group seeking independence for South Yemen – followed a rapid advance by the STC that threatened to destabilize the fragile balance of power.

This intervention underscores Saudi Arabia’s determination to maintain its influence in Yemen and prevent the fragmentation of the country. The STC’s gains challenged the authority of the internationally recognized Yemeni government, which Saudi Arabia supports. The strike served as a clear message that any moves towards secession are unacceptable.

Following the Saudi action, the United Arab Emirates announced it would withdraw its remaining forces from Yemen. While the UAE had previously scaled back its involvement, this complete withdrawal signals a significant disengagement from the conflict. The UAE cited the need to focus on de-escalation and a political solution as reasons for the pullout.

The conflict in Yemen has been ongoing since 2014, pitting the Houthi rebels against the Yemeni government and a Saudi-led coalition supporting the government. The involvement of regional powers like Saudi Arabia and the UAE has complicated the conflict, turning it into a proxy war. This latest development highlights the complex dynamics at play and raises questions about the future of Yemen’s civil war and the broader regional stability.