Saudi Arabia deems UAE-backed Yemen advance a national security threat after coalition strikes weapons shipment in southern Yemen

Saudi Arabia has declared a UAE-backed advance by separatist forces in Yemen a direct threat to the kingdom’s national security, describing Abu Dhabi’s actions as “highly dangerous”, amid escalating tensions between the Gulf allies.

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The Saudi Foreign Ministry statement followed reports that the Saudi-led coalition targeted a weapons shipment destined for separatist forces allied with the United Arab Emirates at the port of Al-Mukalla in southern Yemen.

The strike destroyed several vehicles and combat equipment, with AFP footage showing burnt-out pick-ups and military trucks.

“The steps taken by the UAE are considered highly dangerous,” the ministry said, adding that “any threat to national security is a red line” and vowing to take all necessary measures to neutralise threats.

The United Arab Emirates rejected the claims, insisting that the shipment contained no weapons and was not intended for any Yemeni party.

Abu Dhabi condemned suggestions it had pressured separatist forces to conduct operations along Saudi Arabia’s southern border.

The advance was led by the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), which has seized swathes of territory in a rapid campaign aimed at reviving the formerly independent state of South Yemen.

The offensive has embarrassed Riyadh, the main supporter of the internationally recognised Yemeni government.

In response, Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, led by Rashad al-Alimi, declared a 90-day state of emergency, annulled a security pact with the UAE, and demanded Emirati forces withdraw within 24 hours. The STC members of the council rejected the move, warning it could escalate the conflict further.

Local residents reported damage to property and widespread fear following the strikes. Abdullah Bazuhair, who lives near the port, said: “The strikes were unacceptable to God. The children were terrified and the women frightened.”

A Saudi military source indicated that diplomacy remains a possible avenue to prevent further escalation, despite the operation.

The coalition emphasised that the strikes were conducted in line with international humanitarian law and caused no collateral damage.

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Tuesday’s strike comes days after Saudi air raids on STC positions in the resource-rich Hadramawt governorate, highlighting the growing rift between former allies Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.