Yemen Separatists Allow Saudi Forces in Seized Areas Amid Gulf Tensions

• UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Yemen agreed to deploy Saudi-aligned National Shield forces in Hadramout and al-Mahra provinces.
• STC seized these crucial southern provinces last month, citing a need to protect gains against Iran-backed Houthis.
• Hadramout holds Yemen's largest oil fields, while al-Mahra is vital for Saudi oil pipelines bypassing the Strait of Hormuz.
• The move comes amid escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE over Yemen's future, despite both fighting Houthis since 2015.
• Recent incidents include a Saudi-led strike on alleged Emirati weapons and UAE's denial, calling for STC pullback and announcing troop withdrawal.

Why It Matters: Yemen separatists' concession to Saudi forces highlights complex, shifting alliances and regional tensions.