Aden Airport Suspends Operations Amid Escalating Tensions in Yemen

Amid rising tensions between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Yemen, air traffic at Aden International Airport has been suspended. The move comes as the internationally recognized, Saudi-backed Yemeni government imposed new restrictions on flights to and from the UAE. This decision was quickly followed by a complete halt to all international air travel at the airport, as ordered by Yemen's transport minister, who has close ties to southern separatist groups.

The Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist faction seeking autonomy for southern Yemen, receives significant support from the UAE. The involvement of these factions has intensified the already complex power struggle in the region. Saudi Arabia has recently accused the UAE of encouraging the STC to advance towards the Saudi border, escalating security concerns and prompting strong statements from Saudi officials, who reiterated the inviolability of their national borders.

In response to these developments, the UAE announced it would withdraw its military personnel from Yemen. This decision was made public soon after a Saudi-led coalition carried out airstrikes on the southern port city of Mukalla, targeting a shipment of weapons allegedly connected to the UAE. The air raid underscored the deepening divisions between two major Gulf states that have previously presented a unified front in Yemen's ongoing conflict.

The discord between Saudi Arabia and the UAE could have broader economic repercussions, as both nations are influential players in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). Political instability and military actions in Yemen have the potential to disrupt oil markets and regional trade, affecting not only the countries directly involved but also the global economy.

The roots of the conflict in Yemen date back to its history as two separate states until 1990, when North and South Yemen unified. After unification, the northern part of the country dominated political life, leading to discontent in the south. A failed attempt at secession by southern forces in 1994 resulted in military suppression. Since then, the STC and other southern groups have consistently advocated for independence.

Yemen has faced continuous turmoil since the outbreak of civil war in 2014, when Houthi forces seized control of the northern regions, including the capital, Sanaa. This development forced the internationally recognized government to relocate to the south, primarily in Aden. The multi-layered conflict now involves not only local factions but also regional powers, each supporting different groups and pursuing their own strategic interests.

The recent closure of Aden International Airport underscores the fragile security situation and the risk of further escalation. Disruptions to civilian infrastructure, such as transportation hubs, heighten the humanitarian challenges faced by Yemen's population, which has already endured years of war, displacement, and economic hardship.

Observers warn that the ongoing rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the UAE may hinder peace efforts in Yemen and risk prolonging the conflict. As diplomatic negotiations stall and military operations intensify, the prospects for a lasting resolution remain uncertain.