The United Arab Emirates has agreed to return to the Yemen war by resuming payments to some government forces fighting the Ansar Allah in the south, while Saudi Arabia will provide air cover, according to The Guardian. Rulers on both sides are alarmed by Houthi advances across Yemen, and this agreement marks the first clear sign that the deep rift between the two Gulf states over the country's future is beginning to heal.
Why the UAE Is Coming Back
January marked the departure of the UAE from Yemen, which included cutting off financial support for southern forces like the Giant Brigades that it previously funded and trained. These units rank among the most effective elements within the anti-Houthi coalition.
A failed bid by the separatist Southern Transitional Council to seize control of the south preceded this exit. STC leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi escaped to Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia targeted UAE arms shipments intended for STC forces with airstrikes.
Deep concern now grips UAE officials as the Houthis remain resolved to capture Taiz and Marib despite suffering heavy losses.
Saudi Arabia Under Daily Attack
Daily drone and missile strikes target Saudi Arabia, disrupting airports and energy infrastructure and forcing the kingdom to postpone football league matches.
Two Houthi missiles struck Aden airport on Friday, landing about 500 metres from a Yemenia Airways plane getting ready for takeoff, though no casualties were reported.
Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi convened an emergency session of parliament to authorize military action in defense of Saudi Arabia, and the UK deployed an RAF Voyager refuelling aircraft.
The UN reports that more than 200,000 people have been displaced since August.
