RIYADH — Tensions are rising within the Saudi-led Arab Coalition fighting in Yemen, as evidenced by a public dispute over the unauthorized entry of military equipment into the port of Al-Mukalla. The Joint Forces Command of the Coalition has accused the United Arab Emirates of serious violations of established protocols, specifically regarding the arrival and handling of vessels carrying weapons and military vehicles. This Yemen port incident threatens to complicate the already fragile security situation in the region.
The disagreement centers around two ships that entered Yemeni territorial waters without permission from either the internationally recognized Yemeni government or the Coalition command, according to a statement released by Coalition spokesperson Brig. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki. The incident occurred earlier this week and has prompted a formal demand from the Coalition for clarification and a return to agreed-upon procedures. The situation highlights ongoing challenges to maintaining unity and coordination among coalition members.
Coalition Details Unauthorized Shipment to Yemen Port
Brig. Gen. Al-Maliki stated that the vessels deliberately disabled their tracking systems upon entering Yemeni waters, a breach of both maritime regulations and international navigation standards. The ships arrived at Al-Mukalla while the port was officially closed and staff had been evacuated. The Coalition alleges the vessels were carrying over 80 military vehicles and numerous containers filled with weapons and ammunition.
Sequence of Events
The Coalition command immediately informed Emirati officials about the unauthorized arrival and requested that the military cargo remain at the port to prevent its potential transfer to areas of active conflict. According to the Coalition, the Emirati side subsequently moved the vehicles and containers to Al-Rayyan Air Base, located in Hadramout governorate, without notifying Saudi authorities. This action is being characterized as a significant escalation and a violation of the principles governing the alliance.
While the vehicles were eventually returned to Al-Mukalla port as requested, the weapons containers remained at Al-Rayyan Air Base. Intelligence reports, the Coalition claims, indicated plans to distribute these containers to various locations throughout the Hadramout valley and desert. This potential dispersal of weaponry was seen as a direct threat to regional stability.
In response to the perceived threat, the Coalition conducted what it described as “limited military action” early Tuesday. The stated objective was to prevent further escalation and safeguard civilians and public property. Al-Maliki emphasized that the operation was carried out in full compliance with international humanitarian law and the Coalition’s rules of engagement, and that no casualties or damage were reported.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue a comprehensive public response to the Coalition’s allegations, though initial statements have alluded to differing operational priorities and a commitment to supporting legitimate Yemeni forces. The ministry has emphasized its continued dedication to the overall goals of the Coalition, but has not directly addressed the specific claims of unauthorized entry and cargo movement.
Implications for Regional Security and the Yemen Conflict
This dispute comes at a sensitive time in the Yemen conflict, with ongoing efforts to broker a lasting peace agreement between the Yemeni government and Houthi rebels. The presence of additional weaponry, particularly if distributed outside of established command structures, could further complicate these negotiations and potentially reignite fighting. The situation also raises concerns about the control and oversight of arms shipments within the Yemen war.
Additionally, the public nature of this disagreement between Saudi Arabia and the UAE – two key players in the Coalition – signals a potential fracturing of unity. Both nations have pursued somewhat divergent strategies in Yemen, and this incident may reflect deeper underlying tensions regarding the future direction of the conflict. Observers note that the UAE has increasingly focused on supporting southern separatist groups, while Saudi Arabia has prioritized maintaining the legitimacy of the internationally recognized government.
The incident also highlights the challenges of maintaining maritime security in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, areas vital for international trade. The deliberate disabling of tracking systems raises concerns about potential smuggling and the movement of illicit materials. Enhanced monitoring and enforcement of maritime regulations are crucial to preventing future incidents.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has called for restraint and dialogue between the parties involved. Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg has reportedly been in contact with both Saudi and Emirati officials, urging them to resolve the dispute through diplomatic channels. The UN continues to advocate for a comprehensive ceasefire and a political solution to the conflict.
Looking ahead, the immediate focus will be on securing the remaining weapons containers at Al-Rayyan Air Base and preventing their unauthorized distribution. A joint investigation into the incident, involving representatives from both Saudi Arabia and the UAE, is expected to be launched. The outcome of this investigation, and the willingness of both sides to address the underlying issues, will be critical in determining the future of the Coalition and the prospects for peace in Yemen. The next few weeks will be crucial in observing whether a diplomatic resolution can be reached or if this dispute will further escalate tensions in the region.
