The UAE and Saudi Arabia deny claims of talks with the US regarding a potential Yemeni land offensive against Houthi rebels. UAE officials termed the reports as “wild, unsubstantiated stories,” while similar denials came from Saudi sources. These developments occur during a US-led aerial campaign against Houthi forces, aimed at protecting essential shipping routes in the Red Sea.
On Wednesday, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia refuted claims of their involvement in discussions regarding a potential land offensive by Yemeni military factions against the Houthi rebels. Lana Nusseibeh, the UAE Assistant Minister for Political Affairs, described these reports as “wild, unsubstantiated stories.” A Saudi official similarly characterized the reports as false.
The Wall Street Journal reported earlier that Yemeni factions were considering a ground offensive along the Red Sea coast, prompted by ongoing US airstrikes on the Houthis, with the UAE allegedly proposing such a plan to US officials. Bloomberg further noted that Yemeni forces opposed to the Houthis are engaging in talks with the US and Gulf allies regarding a possible offensive.
These developments occur approximately a month into a US-led aerial campaign directed against the Houthis, initiated by President Donald Trump, which aims to counteract Houthi assaults on shipping routes in the Red Sea, crucial for international trade. Following the resumption of US airstrikes, armed groups supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government have reportedly been preparing for advances towards Hodeidah, targeting Houthi positions.
Historically, the UAE participated in a Saudi-led coalition against the Houthis in 2015, responding to the requests of the Yemeni government after the rebels seized the capital, Sanaa, in 2014. However, the UAE concluded its military operations in Yemen by 2019, and major hostilities in the civil war diminished with the onset of a truce and ongoing peace discussions in 2022, leaving the Houthis predominantly in control of the western regions.
Notably, the Houthis commenced attacks on Red Sea shipping in November 2023, asserting that these actions were in solidarity with Palestinians amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict.
In summary, both the UAE and Saudi Arabia have dismissed media reports alleging their involvement in US negotiations concerning a land offensive in Yemen. Amid a US-led military operation against Houthi rebels, these nations clarify their current positions and prior engagements in Yemen, emphasizing the complexities of regional dynamics and ongoing conflicts. As discussions continue, the situation remains fluid, with significant implications for the region’s stability.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
