US Seeks to Unite Saudi- and UAE-Backed Forces Amid Yemen Tensions
Following escalating disputes and clashes between Saudi- and UAE-backed forces in Yemen, the United States has launched a new effort to contain these tensions and steer both sides toward a unified front against the Houthi forces.
According to a report from Al-Akhbar newspaper, Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council, supported by the UAE, has expanded its influence in parts of eastern Yemen. This move is officially aimed at securing the Hadhramaut and Al-Mahrah provinces, but observers view it as part of a gradual advance toward northern territories.
These developments come as Saudi Arabia pressures UAE-backed forces to withdraw from these two provinces. Simultaneously, there are signs of efforts to activate northern fronts against the Houthis; a situation the US considers an obstacle to advancing the shared goals of its allies.
In this context, the US Secretary of State recently discussed with his Emirati counterpart the need to stabilize southern Yemen. Local sources in southern Yemen have said that the UAE seeks to coordinate its affiliated forces to counter the Houthis.
Also, the US ambassador to Yemen has held several meetings with members of the so-called Presidential Council and influential figures of the Southern Transitional Council, stressing the necessity of their unity against the Houthis.
On the ground, UAE-backed forces have taken control of the remaining government institutions in Al-Mahrah province over the past two days and have moved new military equipment toward Hadhramaut. Meanwhile, Saudi fighter jets continue to patrol Hadhramaut’s skies, with reconnaissance drones reportedly operating against UAE-backed forces observed in the area. With Riyadh’s pressure on withdrawing these forces failing, the likelihood of renewed clashes in Hadhramaut has increased.
