Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced Friday evening that it has completed the return of its forces from Yemen, implementing a previously declared decision to end the remaining counterterrorism mission in the country. A Defense Ministry statement confirmed that all Emirati military personnel have returned from Yemen, in coordination with relevant partners. According to Anadolu Agency, the termination of the remaining counterterrorism teams in Yemen was made voluntarily by the UAE, ensuring the safety of its personnel and in coordination with concerned partners. This decision aligns with recent developments in Yemen, where government forces regained control of several key military positions in the eastern province of Hadhramaut as fighters of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) withdrew from major sites. The UAE's withdrawal comes amidst a rift with Saudi Arabia, which accused Abu Dhabi of encouraging STC forces to conduct military operations along the kingdom's southern border in Hadhramau t and Al-Mahra. The UAE has refuted these accusations. The STC argues that successive Yemeni governments have politically and economically marginalized southern regions and advocates for secession. However, Yemeni authorities reject these claims and emphasize their commitment to maintaining the country's unity. The UAE has been part of the Saudi-led Arab coalition since 2015, supporting legitimacy in Yemen, backing international efforts to combat terrorist organizations, and contributing to security and stability in the country.