Saudi Influence Wanes in Eastern Yemen as UAE-Backed Forces Seize Key Port
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, UAE-backed armed groups have intensified military tensions in Yemen‘s Al-Mahra province, in what is seen as an effort to completely eliminate Saudi Arabia’s influence in the area.
Reports indicate that the so-called Southern Transitional Council forces have taken full control of the port of Nishtun, expelling Saudi-affiliated “Shield of the Nation” forces. This development represents a significant setback for Riyadh, as the port was one of its most vital centers and main levers of pressure in Al-Mahra province.
Sources familiar with the situation assess that this development signals a serious weakening of Saudi Arabia’s position in eastern Yemen. They emphasize that the loss of Nishtun port severely restricts Riyadh’s presence and influence in the province.
The escalation by forces close to the UAE is considered a provocative move aimed at underscoring Abu Dhabi’s determination to end Saudi influence in Yemen’s strategic oil-rich regions. This comes as Saudi Arabia finds itself in a weak and passive position in the face of the expanding military presence of opposing factions in southern and eastern Yemen.
Although Al-Mahra province is not directly controlled by the National Salvation Government led by Ansarallah, developments there can be assessed within the framework of the internal Saudi-Emirati coalition rivalry and the weakening of the front opposing Sanaa.
Ansarallah has repeatedly emphasized that it considers the military presence of Saudi Arabia and the UAE in eastern and southern Yemen to be an occupation.
