Emirati veto threatens to block Saudi-backed Aden government

ADEN, Feb. 08 (YPA) – The United Arab Emirates (UAE), through its political and media arms, has sent explicit signals aimed at blocking the return of the newly formed, Saudi-backed government led by Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak Al-Zindani to the southern Yemeni city of Aden, a key stronghold of UAE-aligned factions.

The escalation came as the government was preparing to take the constitutional oath ahead of assuming its duties from inside the city.

In a move reflecting heightened tensions, Abu Dhabi reportedly encouraged Southern Transitional Council (STC) spokesperson Anwar al-Tamimi—who resides in the UAE—to issue strongly worded warnings, amplified by Emirati media outlets, vowing to categorically prevent the new government from entering Aden.

Al-Tamimi said the southern public did not recognize the new government formation and was instead mobilizing on the ground to oppose its presence.

These developments appeared to be a response to what the UAE viewed as its marginalization in the latest government power-sharing arrangements, following a series of Saudi steps that have reduced Emirati influence in strategic areas across eastern and southern Yemen.

Despite Riyadh’s earlier, tacit move to sideline the STC, Abu Dhabi has continued to leverage the council as a key pressure tool to obstruct political outcomes that do not align with its interests.

As the anticipated arrival date of the government approaches, Aden remains vulnerable to multiple scenarios, including organized protests aimed at disrupting government operations, as well as security concerns over potential threats to the government’s convoy or residence.

Observers noted that the warnings emerging from Abu Dhabi may carry clear political signals of rejection.

These developments suggested that Aden may become the next arena for rivalry between the two regional allies, placing the Al-Zindani government under an early and complex test of legitimacy before it formally begins its work.

AA