The United Arab Emirates urged restraint on Saturday as Yemen’s political and military crisis rapidly escalated. The call followed Saudi-backed forces retaking areas seized by UAE-backed southern separatists. The developments deepened tensions between the two Gulf allies.
The crisis intensified after government forces entered parts of Mukalla in Hadramout province. The region is strategically located near Saudi Arabia and key global shipping routes. Fighting there has fractured the coalition battling Yemen’s Houthi movement.
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The UAE said Yemenis should prioritise dialogue to protect security and stability. The statement came hours after the Southern Transitional Council announced plans for an independence referendum. The STC said the vote could take place after a two-year transition period.
Saudi-backed forces said they regained control of key locations on Friday. Witnesses confirmed their entry into Mukalla on Saturday. Earlier, Saudi air strikes targeted what Riyadh described as foreign military support to separatists.
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The crisis has triggered the deepest rift in decades between Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Saudi Arabia asked remaining UAE forces to leave Yemen, and Abu Dhabi complied. The dispute now threatens regional stability as both countries prepare for an OPEC meeting.