The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia have renewed their cooperation to counter Houthi advances in Yemen, with the UAE agreeing to resume financial support for Yemeni government forces and Saudi Arabia pledging air support for the anti-Houthi coalition. This development arises from increasing concerns over the military progress and regional attacks by the Houthi rebels.
This renewed partnership marks a potential shift in relations between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which have previously experienced disagreements over Yemen’s political landscape and the role of southern separatist forces. Although the UAE had previously trained and funded several southern military units, such as the Giant Brigades, it had withdrawn its involvement from Yemen in January.
Saudi Arabia has been subjected to multiple drone and missile attacks attributed to the Houthis, targeting critical infrastructure like airports and energy facilities. In response, Yemen’s internationally recognized government has launched a counteroffensive to reclaim strategic territories, including areas near Marib and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, though progress has been limited.
Amid escalating tensions, a Houthi missile strike recently occurred near Aden’s airport while a passenger aircraft was preparing for take-off, following an earlier attack on a presidential palace that resulted in several casualties. These events have heightened security concerns in the region, prompting Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to suggest potential defensive measures to support Saudi Arabia. The United Kingdom is also considering additional military assistance in response to the ongoing conflict.
The collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the UAE comes amid a severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen. The United Nations reports that over 200,000 people have been displaced since August, increasing the burden on humanitarian organizations operating in the region.