Saudi Strikes Deal UAE a Blow in Yemen, Separatist Leader Flees Country

Dubai: Yemen’s separatist leader Aidarus al-Zubaidi has reportedly fled the country amid escalating tensions with Saudi Arabia. Considered a UAE-backed figure, al-Zubaidi became a target of over 15 Saudi airstrikes in Yemen, prompting his departure out of fear for his safety.

A council fighting against the Houthi rebels announced on Wednesday that it had expelled al-Zubaidi, though reports indicate he had already left Yemen prior to the official decision. The council accused him of treason after he reportedly refused to travel to Saudi Arabia for recent negotiations.

Tensions Between Saudi Arabia and UAE

According to the Houthi-opposed Saba News Agency, the move highlights the growing strain between Saudi-backed forces and the UAE-supported Southern Transitional Council (STC). The current location of al-Zubaidi remains unknown, and the STC has not commented on the decision of the Houthi-opposed “Presidential Leadership Council.”

Previously, Major General Turki al-Maliki, spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, stated that al-Zubaidi was scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia but did not board the plane with other council officials. Intelligence reportedly indicated that al-Zubaidi had gathered a significant portion of the military, including armored and combat vehicles, heavy and light weaponry, and ammunition. He then fled to an undisclosed location.

Saudi Airstrikes and UAE Withdrawal

In recent weeks, Saudi Arabia conducted airstrikes on STC positions, reportedly targeting shipments of UAE-supplied weapons. Facing Saudi pressure and warnings from anti-Houthi forces, the UAE withdrew its troops from Yemen on Saturday. The developments have further strained the relations between Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Saudi Arabia vs. UAE in the Yemen Conflict

Both Gulf powers have historically competed over economic and regional influence, particularly in the Red Sea region. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have maintained a joint objective of combating the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who have held Yemen’s capital Sana’a since 2014. However, the recent clashes underscore growing divisions within the anti-Houthi coalition.