Why Did the United Arab Emirates Withdraw from Yemen?

GAROWE, Somalia (GO) — The United Arab Emirates has announced the end of its remaining military presence in Yemen, citing heightened security risks and shifting political and military dynamics in the country’s south.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the UAE Ministry of Defence said the decision was taken in light of “recent developments and their potential implications for the safety and effectiveness of counterterrorism tasks.” The ministry said the withdrawal would be carried out voluntarily, in coordination with relevant partners, and in a manner that ensures the safety of Emirati personnel.

The move followed a series of escalatory steps by Yemen’s leadership. Earlier on Tuesday, the chairman of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad al-Alimi, cancelled a joint defence agreement with the UAE and issued a 24-hour deadline for Emirati forces to withdraw from the country.

Al-Alimi also declared a state of emergency for 90 days and ordered a 72-hour suspension of air and land movement across all ports and border crossings.

Tensions rose further after the Saudi-led coalition carried out what it described as a “limited” airstrike targeting two ships linked to the UAE at the port of Mukalla.

The developments come amid growing instability in southern Yemen, where the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) earlier this month took control of the eastern provinces of Hadramaut and Al-Mahra following clashes with government forces.

The withdrawal marks a significant shift in the UAE’s role in Yemen and underscores the deepening divisions and volatility shaping the country’s ongoing conflict.

GAROWE ONLINE