The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia have renewed their cooperation to counter the advances of Houthi rebels in Yemen. This collaboration sees the UAE agreeing to resume financial support for Yemeni government forces, while Saudi Arabia has pledged air support for the anti-Houthi coalition. This strategic move comes amid growing concerns over the increasing military strength of the Houthis and their escalating attacks in the region.
The renewed partnership marks a potential improvement in relations between the two Gulf nations, which have previously experienced tensions over Yemen’s political future and the role of southern separatist forces. The UAE, which had trained and funded several southern military units such as the Giant Brigades, had withdrawn its involvement in Yemen in January. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, has been a target of repeated drone and missile attacks by the Houthis, affecting key infrastructure like airports and energy facilities.
On the ground, Yemen’s internationally recognized government has launched a counteroffensive to reclaim territory, focusing on areas near Marib and the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait; however, their progress has been limited. The conflict has also intensified in Aden, where a Houthi missile strike reportedly landed near the airport during a passenger aircraft’s preparations for take-off. This attack followed another on a presidential palace that resulted in casualties and injuries.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen continues to raise significant regional security concerns. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has hinted at possible defensive measures to support Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom is considering additional military assistance in response to requests. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Yemen worsens, with the United Nations reporting over 200,000 people displaced since August, thereby increasing the burden on humanitarian organizations operating in the region.
