Saudi Arabia accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Thursday of aiding a wanted Yemeni separatist leader's escape. Aidarous al-Zubaidi, head of the Southern Transitional Council, faces treason charges. Saudi intelligence indicated al-Zubaidi fled Yemen by boat to Somalia early Wednesday. He then allegedly flew to the UAE.
The Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen confirmed the intelligence. Anwar al-Tamimi, a spokesman for the Southern Transitional Council, denied the claim. He stated al-Zubaidi remains in southern Yemen. The UAE government has not commented. Al-Zubaidi's current location is unconfirmed.
This accusation escalates the growing dispute between Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Both nations are key U.S. allies. The feud could destabilize the region further.
The Southern Transitional Council seeks an independent state in southern Yemen. They have received backing from the UAE. This support contradicts Saudi Arabia's goal of a unified Yemen.
The Saudi allegation demands a response from the UAE. Further escalation could fracture the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen. The situation remains volatile.
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