Yemen’s presidential council aligned with the internationally recognized government declared a state of emergency after fresh advances by southern separatist forces challenged its authority.
Officials confirmed that the government cancelled its bilateral defense pact with the United Arab Emirates while accusing Emirati authorities of backing the Southern Transitional Council.
The council’s head Rashad al Alimi stated that Emirati forces were given a strict 24 hour deadline to withdraw from Yemeni territory.
Saudi led coalition sources noted that their aircraft earlier struck weapons and vehicles said to have been supplied to separatist fighters from ships departing the Emirates.
