Feud between Saudi Arabia and the UAE could threaten Mideast stability

A dispute that began over Yemen strategy has escalated into public social media attacks and growing diplomatic strain between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have moved from policy disagreement into a broader public quarrel that began in late December over Yemen strategy. The dispute has spilled onto social media and into diplomatic channels, with Emirati officials reporting online attacks focused on the UAE's relationship with Israel. Reporting describes military and political friction linked to operations in Yemen and subsequent withdrawals by Emirati-backed forces. U.S. officials reportedly offered to mediate, but both sides have so far resisted outside mediation. Key developments: - The initial disagreement centered on different approaches to the war in Yemen. - Social media campaigns and public criticism have targeted the UAE over its ties with Israel, according to media analyses cited in reporting. - Saudi strikes against forces allied with the UAE preceded a withdrawal of some Emirati-backed operations in Yemen, as reported. - U.S. offers to mediate were reportedly declined by both Saudi and Emirati sides. Summary: This dispute has strained ties between two leading Gulf states and has affected coordination on Yemen and other regional matters. Undetermined at this time.