Yemen STC Hadramout Military Conflict 2026: The Deepening Saudi-UAE Rift
Saudi-UAE tensions rise as the STC seizes Hadramout in Yemen. Explore the impact of the 2026 military escalation on regional security and energy.
They've fought as allies, but now they're clenching fists. Rashad al-Alimi, head of Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council, issued a stark warning on January 1, 2026, against unilateral military moves by southern separatists. The Southern Transitional Council (STC) has seized control of the resource-rich Hadramout and al-Mahra provinces, pushing the region to the brink of a new internal war.
Saudi Arabia vs. UAE: A Strategic Clash in Southern Yemen
The escalation has exposed a massive fracture between Saudi Arabia and its coalition partner, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Riyadh accused the UAE of egging the STC on, calling their presence near the Saudi border a "red line" for national security. While Abu Dhabi rejected these allegations, it's notably ended its remaining counterterrorism missions in the country, signaling a tactical shift.
Airstrikes and Resistance at Mukalla Port
Tensions turned violent on December 30, 2025, when the Saudi-led coalition launched airstrikes on the port of Mukalla. The strikes targeted two ships carrying military vehicles from Fujairah. Despite the pressure, STC spokesperson Mohammed al-Naqeeb confirmed on X that their units won't back down, further entrenching their presence in the seized areas.
The EU calls for de-escalation as developments in Hadramout and al-Mahra risk spurring new instability across the Gulf.
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