The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has agreed to return to the Yemen war by resuming payments to some government forces fighting the Ansar Allah (Houthis) in the south. In return, Saudi Arabia will provide air cover, The Guardian claimed.
The deal is the first clear sign that the deep rift between the two Gulf states over Yemen’s future is starting to heal. Houthi advances across Yemen have alarmed rulers on both sides.
Why the UAE Is Coming Back
The UAE pulled out of Yemen in January, cutting off funding to southern forces such as the Giant Brigades, which it had trained and funded. These units are seen as among the most effective in the anti-Houthi coalition.
The exit came after a failed attempt by the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) to take control of the south. STC leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi fled to Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia bombed UAE arms shipments meant for STC forces.
UAE officials are now deeply worried. Despite heavy losses, the Houthis remain determined to capture Taiz and Marib.
Saudi Arabia Under Daily Attack
Saudi Arabia is facing daily drone and missile attacks, with Houthi strikes disrupting its airports and some energy infrastructure. The attacks have even forced the kingdom to postpone football league matches.
On Friday, two Houthi missiles hit Aden airport, landing about 500 metres from a Yemenia Airways plane preparing to take off. No casualties were reported.
Meanwhile, Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has called an emergency session of parliament to let the military act in defence of Saudi Arabia. The UK has also sent an RAF Voyager refuelling aircraft.
According to the UN, more than 200,000 people have been displaced since August.
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