Allies turn into rivals as Yemen scraps UAE defense pact, issues 24-hour ultimatum to Emirati troops

A rare and explosive rift has burst into the open between Saudi Arabia and the UAE as Yemen’s government issued a dramatic ultimatum ordering Emirati forces to leave immediately. The move followed Saudi-led coalition airstrikes near Mukalla and claims of foreign military support to UAE-backed separatists. Riyadh warned that Abu Dhabi’s actions were “extremely dangerous” for regional stability, while the UAE called for restraint and confirmed a troop withdrawal. With threats of air, land and sea blockades looming, fears are growing that Yemen’s war could spiral into a new Gulf power struggle.