Yemen Cancels Defense Pact with UAE

The Saudi-backed presidential council of Yemen has taken decisive action against the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The governing body officially canceled a mutual defense pact and issued a demand for the immediate withdrawal of UAE forces from the country.

The timeline for this withdrawal is exceptionally tight. According to the announcement, UAE military personnel must depart within 24 hours. This move represents a major diplomatic shift in the region. It suggests a breakdown in the military alliance that has characterized the conflict in Yemen. The cancellation of the pact removes a formal framework for military cooperation between the two nations. It also raises questions about the future of the coalition's efforts in the region. The demand for a swift exit highlights the severity of the decision.

The Saudi-backed presidential council has formally revoked its defense agreement with the UAE. This decision effectively ends the legal and military cooperation that existed between the two parties. The revocation is a significant step that alters the strategic landscape in Yemen.

The UAE has been a key player in the military coalition operating within Yemen. Their involvement has included ground troops, air support, and backing for various local forces. The defense pact likely outlined specific terms for this military cooperation. By canceling it, the presidential council is signaling a change in its strategic priorities. It indicates a desire to reassess the nature of foreign military presence on its soil.

Alongside the cancellation of the pact, the council issued a direct order for the UAE to remove its forces. The deadline for this withdrawal is set for 24 hours. This rapid timeline creates an immediate logistical challenge for the UAE.

The demand for a 24-hour exit suggests that the council wants to minimize the time available for diplomatic maneuvering. It reflects a firm stance on the issue of foreign military presence. The withdrawal of UAE forces would significantly alter the military balance on the ground. It could also impact the operations of local factions supported by the Emirates. The international community is watching closely to see if the deadline will be met.

This development has profound implications for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The UAE and Saudi Arabia have historically been close allies. However, their strategies in Yemen have occasionally diverged. The cancellation of the pact by the Saudi-backed council highlights these differences.

The move could strain relations between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi. It may also complicate future efforts to resolve the conflict in Yemen. The departure of UAE forces could create a power vacuum in areas they currently control. This might lead to increased competition among various armed groups. The decision forces a re-evaluation of the coalition's objectives in the country.