Coalition Control Versus Partner Autonomy

Saudi Arabia’s disclosure of details surrounding the bombing of Yemen’s southern port of Mukalla marks a rare public rupture within the Gulf-led coalition fighting in Yemen. The strike, carried out early Tuesday, targeted what Riyadh described as a weapons shipment linked to the United Arab Emirates and destined for separatist forces.

Coalition spokesman Major-General Turki al-Maliki said the operation uncovered “more than 80 vehicles and containers of weapons and ammunition” after two ships entered the port. According to al-Maliki, Emirati personnel, vehicles, and containers were transferred to the al-Rayyan base without Saudi Arabia being informed. He emphasized that the coalition “adhered to the rules of engagement” during the operation, framing the strike as a compliance and security measure rather than a political signal.

“Counterterrorism” Ends, Influence Remains

The bombing was followed within hours by a UAE announcement that it would withdraw its forces from Yemen, declaring an end to what it termed “counterterrorism” operations. In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Defence said it had conducted a “comprehensive assessment” and decided to terminate its remaining personnel “in a manner that ensures the safety of its personnel.” The move came after Yemen’s internationally recognized government demanded, within 24 hours, that Emirati forces leave the country, a demand explicitly backed by Saudi Arabia.

Riyadh’s objections focus on Abu Dhabi’s alleged backing of the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist group that has shifted from being an ally against the Houthi rebels to a direct challenger of the Saudi-backed government. Saudi Arabia said it was disappointed by “pressure exerted by the UAE” on the STC to conduct military operations in the Hadramout and Mahara provinces.