Pakistan, Jan. 3 -- The United Arab Emirates urged restraint on Saturday as Yemen's political and military crisis rapidly escalated. The call followed Saudi-backed forces retaking areas seized by UAE-backed southern separatists. The developments deepened tensions between the two Gulf allies.

The crisis intensified after government forces entered parts of Mukalla in Hadramout province. The region is strategically located near Saudi Arabia and key global shipping routes. Fighting there has fractured the coalition battling Yemen's Houthi movement.

The UAE said Yemenis should prioritise dialogue to protect security and stability. The statement came hours after the Southern Transitional Council announced plans for an independence referendum...