Saudi Arabia’s coalition launched limited air strikes in Yemen on January 7, 2026, targeting UAE-backed separatists in Hadramawt province to curb their expansion and prevent further conflict. The moves came after separatists seized vast areas last month, sparking a counteroffensive that has reshaped control in the region’s oil-rich zones.
Escalating Tensions in Yemen’s South
Recent clashes highlight a growing rift between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, former allies in Yemen’s long war. The Southern Transitional Council, or STC, backed by the UAE, took over key sites in Hadramawt, including the port city of Mukalla, in late December 2025. This push threatened Saudi interests near its border and disrupted efforts to stabilize the area.
Saudi forces, supporting Yemen’s recognized government, responded with air strikes and ground operations. Reports confirm at least 20 separatist fighters died in initial raids, with dozens more wounded or captured. The coalition described the actions as preemptive to stop STC leader Aidaros al-Zubaidi from extending fights into Aldhale Governorate.
The strikes followed al-Zubaidi’s failure to attend talks in Riyadh. He reportedly fled to an unknown spot, leaving his group in disarray. This event marks a rare public split between Gulf powers, exposing deeper struggles over influence in Yemen.
Background of the Yemen Conflict
Yemen’s war began in 2014 when Houthi rebels ousted the government, leading to Saudi-led intervention in 2015. The coalition aimed to restore the exiled leadership but faced setbacks from internal divisions.
Southern separatists, seeking independence, have clashed with government troops despite shared goals against Houthis. The UAE has trained and armed STC forces, while Saudi Arabia backs the central authority. This proxy rivalry intensified when STC seized oil fields controlling 80 percent of Yemen’s reserves.
Key factors fueling the dispute include:
- Resource control: Hadramawt holds vital oil and gas assets.
- Border security: Saudi Arabia worries about instability spilling over.
- Regional power: UAE’s growing role challenges Saudi dominance.
By early 2026, the conflict has displaced thousands and worsened Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, with over 24 million people needing aid according to recent United Nations estimates.
Details of the Recent Strikes
The coalition’s latest operations focused on STC positions in Hadramawt’s Wadi Nahab camp and al-Khasha’a area. Jets hit weapon shipments at Mukalla port, accusing them of unauthorized foreign backing.
Ground forces reclaimed Mukalla, a strategic Arabian Sea hub, after days of fighting. Saudi-backed troops now control the city, reversing STC gains.
A timeline of key events shows the rapid escalation:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| December 26, 2025 | STC seizes Wadi Nahab camp in Hadramawt. |
| December 27, 2025 | Saudi jets bomb STC forces, killing several. |
| January 3, 2026 | Separatists announce independence plans after strikes kill 20. |
| January 4, 2026 | Saudi forces retake Mukalla, capturing over 130 STC members. |
| January 7, 2026 | Limited strikes target potential expansion to Aldhale. |
These actions have drawn mixed reactions, with some locals welcoming stability but others fearing more violence.
International Reactions and Implications
Global powers watch closely as the rift strains Gulf alliances. The United States urged restraint, emphasizing Yemen’s peace process. Iran, backing Houthis, condemned the strikes as aggression.
Experts predict this could weaken the anti-Houthi front, allowing rebels to gain ground. Recent Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea add urgency to resolving internal disputes.
The UAE called for dialogue, rejecting direct support accusations. Saudi Arabia insists on protecting civilians and de-escalation.
Humanitarian Impact and Future Outlook
Fighting has hit civilians hard, with reports of destroyed homes and blocked aid in Hadramawt. Over 150 wounded in recent clashes need medical help, per local health officials.
Aid groups warn of famine risks if ports like Mukalla stay unstable. Yemen’s economy, reliant on oil exports, faces further decline.
Peace talks in Riyadh might resume, but al-Zubaidi’s absence complicates matters. Analysts see a need for unified Gulf strategy to end the war, now in its 12th year.
As this story develops, share your thoughts in the comments below or spread the word to keep informed on Yemen’s evolving crisis.
