The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia have renewed their cooperation to counter the Houthi rebels in Yemen, as concerns grow over recent Houthi military advances and attacks in the region. The UAE has reportedly agreed to resume financial support for Yemeni government forces, while Saudi Arabia has promised air support for the coalition fighting against the Houthis.
This development comes against a backdrop of past tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia over Yemen’s political future and the role of southern separatist forces. The UAE had previously withdrawn its involvement in Yemen in January after training and funding several southern military units, including the Giant Brigades.
Saudi Arabia continues to grapple with frequent drone and missile attacks attributed to the Houthis, which have targeted key infrastructure such as airports and energy facilities. In response, Yemen’s internationally recognized government has launched a counteroffensive aimed at reclaiming areas near Marib and the crucial Bab al-Mandab Strait, although the progress has been limited.
Recent escalations have also been witnessed in Aden, where a Houthi missile strike reportedly landed near the airport as a passenger plane was preparing for takeoff. This attack followed another on a presidential palace, which resulted in the deaths of at least five people and injuries to 16 others.
The ongoing conflict not only escalates regional security concerns but also exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. The United Nations reports that over 200,000 people have been displaced since August, putting additional pressure on humanitarian organizations operating in the country. Meanwhile, international reactions include Egypt signaling potential defensive measures to protect Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom considering requests for increased military assistance.