UAE Pulls Forces from Yemen After Saudi Ultimatum Amid Escalating Tensions

• The UAE announced the withdrawal of its remaining forces from Yemen following a 24-hour ultimatum from Saudi Arabia.
• Tensions escalated after Saudi-led coalition airstrikes targeted an Emirati shipment at Mukalla port, claiming it carried weapons for UAE-backed separatists, which the UAE denied.
• Saudi Arabia accused the UAE of threatening its national security, while Yemen's presidential council dissolved a defense pact with the UAE and declared a state of emergency.
• The UAE denied allegations of backing separatist advances or shipping weapons, stating the cargo was for its own forces, and expressed willingness for dialogue.
• The UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) remains defiant, refusing to withdraw from newly seized territories in Hadramawt and Mahra provinces.

Why It Matters: UAE withdraws from Yemen under Saudi pressure, escalating regional tensions and impacting peace efforts.