Gulf Powers' Tug-of-War Threatens Stability in Horn of Africa

A rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the UAE is affecting the Horn of Africa, overshadowing the African Union summit. Originally a conflict over Yemen, it has now spread to countries like Somalia and Sudan. Involvement of Gulf powers is forcing local entities to choose sides, worsening regional conflicts.

A diplomatic feud between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is casting a shadow over this weekend's African Union summit, as leaders of the continent attempt to stay neutral, according to diplomats and experts. Initially a rivalry rooted in Yemen, the conflict has expanded across the Red Sea into the Horn of Africa—a region already beleaguered by its own set of challenges, including wars in Somalia and Sudan and tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea.

In recent years, the UAE has exerted significant influence in the Horn through substantial investments and military alliances, whereas Saudi Arabia is building a counterbalancing alliance with Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar, say diplomats. This rivalry is forcing nations and factions in the region to take sides, escalating existing conflicts.

Analysts note the complex web of alliances, with UAE supporting certain factions in Sudan's war, and Saudi Arabia backing others. The volatile situation has made African nations cautious, preferring to avoid getting entrenched in what has become a proxy battleground for Middle Eastern power struggles.

(With inputs from agencies.)