A Saudi-led airstrike on Yemen's Mukalla, targeting shipments linked to the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), has exposed growing distrust between Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The strike, aimed at STC gains in Hadramout province near Saudi borders, prompted the UAE to cite safety concerns and withdraw forces. While Saudi Arabia views the STC's expansion as a threat, the UAE rejects implications of undermining Saudi security, stating its focus is counter-terrorism. Experts note this friction is the most intense in years, revealing deep strategic disagreements.