Yemen Strikes Expose Deep Gulf Rift: Saudi-UAE Tensions Flare

• A Saudi-led airstrike on Yemen's Mukalla, targeting UAE-backed STC shipments, revealed deep distrust between Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
• The incident escalated into a political confrontation, highlighting deep disagreements over regional strategy and influence in Yemen.
• Saudi Arabia accuses the UAE of backing the STC's territorial gains in Hadramout province, near the Saudi border, raising alarm in Riyadh.
• The UAE denies undermining Saudi security, stating its military presence focuses on counter-terrorism; announced withdrawal of remaining forces from Yemen.
• Experts note this is the most intense friction in years, with wider implications for OPEC+ meetings and global energy markets.

Why It Matters: Yemen strikes reveal intense Saudi-UAE distrust, threatening regional stability and global energy talks.