Summary
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), both longtime allies of the U.S., are now in conflict over influence in southern Yemen. The UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) has gained control over key southern regions of Yemen, which affects regional politics and U.S. interests. This development complicates efforts to end the ongoing conflict in Yemen and address humanitarian needs.
Key Facts
- Saudi Arabia and the UAE are U.S. partners who are now at odds in southern Yemen.
- The UAE-backed STC controls much of Yemen's south, including important oil sites and ports.
- The conflict affects U.S. policy, making it harder to achieve peace and provide aid in Yemen.
- Control of southern Yemen affects regional influence over oil reserves and ports.
- The STC's recent military advances mark a significant change in power in Yemen's south.
- This shift reduces Saudi Arabia's influence in Yemen, creating strategic challenges.
- Yemen was divided into two countries until 1990 and remains divided in many ways.
- The conflict has roots in Yemen's history and current external alliances with Iran and others.
