Saudi Arabia and UAE bank on different military strengths in Yemen rivalry

Tensions between former allies Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have escalated dramatically into a dangerous rivalry within Yemen. The conflict ignited after Saudi forces bombed a southern Yemeni port, targeting what they claimed was a UAE weapons shipment for separatist fighters. These separatists, known as the Southern Transitional Council (STC), are backed by the UAE and have been fighting Saudi-backed government troops to establish an independent state. Following the unprecedented Saudi strike, the UAE announced it was ending its military mission in Yemen, raising questions about how it will continue to support its local allies.