Heavy Fighting Erupts in Eastern Yemen as Saudi–UAE Rift Deepens
Clashes in Hadramout: A Significant Escalation
Heavy fighting broke out on Friday in Yemen‘s eastern Hadramout province, near the Saudi border, marking a sharp escalation in the country’s long-running civil war. The battle pits Saudi-backed National Shield forces loyal to the provincial governor against fighters from the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), a southern secessionist group. The conflict underscores a deepening rift between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, once united allies in the coalition against the Houthis.
Details of the Clashes and Airstrikes
Hostilities began when Saudi-backed forces attempted to reclaim military bases previously taken by the STC in the province. The situation quickly escalated into armed clashes. According to STC officials, Saudi warplanes conducted airstrikes on separatist positions around the al-Khasah camp. At least seven STC fighters were killed and over 20 wounded. The STC condemned the strikes as an “act of aggression,” while Saudi-backed authorities stated the operation aimed to restore government control and prevent chaos.
The Fracturing Saudi-UAE Alliance
This confrontation highlights the fragmentation of the Gulf coalition in Yemen. While both nations initially allied to fight the Iran-aligned Houthis, strategic differences have grown. Saudi Arabia continues to back Yemen’s internationally recognized government, while the UAE has increasingly supported the STC’s quest for southern autonomy or independence. Tensions became public last year when Saudi Arabia demanded the UAE withdraw its forces from Yemen, leading to a troop pullout and strained cooperation. The fighting in Hadramout is a direct result of this fractured alliance, with both powers now supporting rival factions vying for control of strategic territory.
Broader Implications
Hadramout is Yemen’s largest governorate and borders Saudi Arabia, making it a region of critical strategic importance. Sustained conflict here risks:
Further destabilizing Yemen and complicating any broader peace process.
Exacerbating the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, where millions already face famine and displacement.
Damaging regional security and cross-border relations.
Also Read: Oman Mandates Premarital Medical Checkups: New 2026 Royal Decree Explained
Outlook: An Uncertain Path to Peace
Friday’s clashes represent one of the most significant escalations in months, driven by the breakdown of Saudi-UAE cooperation. With multiple internal and external actors competing for influence, the path to de-escalation is uncertain. International calls for diplomacy are growing, but deep divisions suggest Yemen’s road to peace remains fragile and fraught with conflict.
