Emirati-American Discussions on the Situation in Yemen and Issues Affecting Regional Security
Amid the growing relations between the UAE and the United States, Emirati-American discussions have taken place regarding the situation in Yemen and issues affecting regional security. UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed received a phone call from his American counterpart, Marco Rubio, during which the conversation focused on the current developments in Yemen and Gaza, reflecting the importance of these issues in the foreign policies of both countries.
Developments in the Situation in Yemen
The Emirates News Agency reported that the call between the two ministers coincided with recent developments in Yemen, where Saudi-led coalition forces launched an attack on the port of Mukalla in Hadhramaut Governorate. The forces stated that the shipment coming from the port of Fujairah in the UAE contained containers loaded with weapons and ammunition, despite the UAE denying the presence of any weapons in that shipment. This attack followed information suggesting that these weapons were intended for distribution at locations in Hadhramaut.
Cancellation of the Defense Agreement
On another note, the Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council in Yemen, Rashad al-Alimi, announced the cancellation of the joint defense agreement with the UAE, which included the withdrawal of all Emirati forces from Yemen within 24 hours. In this context, the Saudi Foreign Ministry accused the UAE of pushing the Southern Transitional Council to carry out military operations along the kingdom’s borders, asserting that its national security is a “red line.”
Reactions and Official Statements
In response to these accusations, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied what it described as “claims” regarding its direction of forces to carry out military operations that jeopardize Saudi security, emphasizing its commitment to regional security. Later, the UAE Ministry of Defense announced the conclusion of its counter-terrorism missions in Yemen, but Saudi Arabia reiterated its demand for the withdrawal of all Emirati forces within 24 hours, in an official statement issued by the Cabinet.
Emirati-American discussions regarding the situation in Yemen and issues affecting regional security continue, reflecting the complexities of regional and security relations during this critical period. As developments in Yemen persist, the situation remains poised for further changes that could impact regional stability.