Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are reportedly in military confrontation in Yemen, escalating their strategic rivalry. Saudi forces conducted an airstrike on Mukalla port, targeting ships allegedly carrying weapons for the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC). The UAE denies this, stating the shipment was humanitarian aid. Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council has accused the UAE of encouraging internal strife and canceled a defense pact, while Saudi Arabia has reportedly issued an ultimatum for UAE withdrawal.