Saudi–UAE Rift Surfaces as Mukalla Strike Targets Emirati Military Gear

The strikes followed a warning message urging civilians to stay away from the port area. The northern parking lot of Mukalla port was hit, with the main objective being recently imported Emirati military vehicles. These vehicles had arrived aboard two cargo ships from Fujairah port to supply fighters of the Southern Transitional Council (STC).

Brigadier General Turki al‑Maliki, spokesperson for the Saudi‑led coalition, stressed that the transfer of Emirati military equipment to Mukalla port constitutes a clear violation of efforts to reduce tensions, pursue a peaceful solution, and breaches UN Security Council Resolution 2216 (2015).

This strike marks the first official and overt Saudi action against the STC and its Emirati backers. By escalating their warnings, the Saudis signaled to southern forces and the UAE that they are capable of fighting them if necessary. However, Riyadh’s primary objective in Yemen remains confronting Ansar Allah, with southerners considered allies in that effort. In reality, the alliance in Yemen has been challenged by Emirati moves, while the Saudis remain reluctant to deepen conflict with their long‑time partner.