RIYADH – Saudi Arabia has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), demanding the immediate withdrawal of all Emirati military forces from Yemen. The Kingdom’s stern warning comes amidst escalating tensions and accusations of breaches to coalition agreements, signaling potentially significant regional repercussions.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement asserting that recent actions by the UAE constitute a clear violation of existing coalition understandings and pose a direct threat to the security and stability of both Yemen and the broader region. The statement also announced the annulment of the joint defense agreement between the two nations.
The Kingdom expressed its deep regret over what it described as undue pressure exerted by the UAE on forces within the Southern Transitional Council (STC), allegedly compelling them to conduct military operations along Saudi Arabia’s southern border in the Hadramaut and Al Mahrah governorates. These border regions are of vital strategic importance to Saudi Arabia.
“Any threat or infringement upon the Kingdom’s national security is a red line,” the statement emphasized. Saudi Arabia affirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity, vowing to take all necessary measures to confront and neutralize any perceived threat. The ultimatum underscores the Kingdom’s determination to maintain its strategic interests and influence in the region, potentially reshaping the dynamics of the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
The unfolding situation is being closely monitored by international observers, with concerns mounting over the potential for further escalation and instability in an already volatile region. The next 24 hours are considered critical in determining the future trajectory of Saudi-Emirati relations and the overall security landscape in Yemen.
