Separatist forces in southern Yemen, backed by the United Arab Emirates, have accused Saudi Arabia of launching airstrikes against them in Hadramout governorate. The alleged strikes followed Saudi warnings for the separatists to withdraw from recently seized areas, escalating tensions within the fragile coalition fighting the Houthi rebels in the north. Local sources reported destroyed military vehicles and casualties among the separatists, while Saudi officials have not officially acknowledged the attacks. The incident highlights growing divisions between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates over influence in Yemen, as well as the risk of renewed conflict in a country already devastated by years of war.

The Southern Transitional Council claims its forces were targeted after facing ambushes in the region, resulting in deaths and injuries among its fighters. The strikes come amid massing of Saudi-backed troops near separatist-held territory and calls for the Council to withdraw. Demonstrations in Aden have shown support for renewed southern independence, further complicating the political landscape. International actors, including the United States, have urged restraint and diplomacy to prevent further escalation.