Once the cornerstones of regional security, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, two Gulf powerhouses, are now seeing their interests drift apart. This divergence touches on areas as varied as oil production quotas and influence over geopolitical matters.

In light of recent events, the UAE has called for a thorough evaluation, as reported by the state news agency WAM.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia remains steadfast in its support for Yemen’s internationally recognized government through the coalition it leads. The Saudi cabinet expressed hopes that the UAE would cease any military or financial support to the Southern Transitional Council (STC).

The STC’s recent territorial advances have broken a long-standing deadlock, with the group ignoring Saudi cautions to assert control over the southern regions of Yemen, including the Hadhramaut province.

The UAE expressed surprise over a recent airstrike and clarified that the shipments involved were intended for Emirati forces and did not contain weapons. The UAE emphasized its commitment to finding a resolution that prevents further escalation and is grounded in reliable information and existing coordination.

Why did Saudi Arabia carry out the airstrike?

The UAE said it had been surprised by the airstrike, and that the shipments in question did not contain weapons and were destined for the Emirati forces. But it said it sought a solution “that prevents escalation, based on reliable facts and existing coordination”.