Abu Dhabi, UAE – The United Arab Emirates expressed its deep regret regarding the statement issued by the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The statement contained fundamental inaccuracies concerning the UAE’s role in the ongoing events in the Republic of Yemen.
The United Arab Emirates, in a statement, categorically rejected any attempt to involve it in the ongoing tensions between Yemeni parties. It condemned allegations that it had pressured or directed any Yemeni party to carry out military operations that threaten the security of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or target its borders.
The United Arab Emirates affirmed its unwavering commitment to the security and stability of the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as its full respect for its sovereignty and national security, and its rejection of any actions that threaten the security of the Kingdom or the region. This stems from its belief that the fraternal and historical relations between the two countries constitute a fundamental pillar of regional stability. The UAE also remains committed to close coordination with its brothers in the Kingdom.
The UAE emphasized that its position since the beginning of the events in the governorates of Hadramawt and Al-Mahra has been to work towards containing the situation, supporting de-escalation efforts, and pushing for understandings that contribute to maintaining security and stability and protecting civilians. This has been done in coordination with its brothers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Regarding the statement issued by the military spokesperson for the Coalition Forces concerning the military operation in the port of Mukalla, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirms its complete rejection of the allegations related to escalating the Yemeni conflict. It also clarified that the aforementioned statement was issued without consultation with the member states of the Coalition.
The Ministry confirmed that the shipment in question did not contain any weapons. It indicated that the vehicles that were unloaded were not intended for any Yemeni party, but were shipped for use by Emirati forces operating in Yemen. The Ministry stressed that the claims circulating in this regard do not reflect the true nature or purpose of the shipment. It noted that there had been high-level coordination regarding these vehicles between the UAE and its brothers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and an agreement that the vehicles would not leave the port. However, the UAE was surprised by the attack on the vehicles at the port of Mukalla.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the UAE’s presence in Yemen came at the invitation of the legitimate Yemeni government and within the framework of the Arab Coalition led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The objective is to support the restoration of legitimacy and combat terrorism, while fully respecting the sovereignty of the Republic of Yemen. The Ministry noted that the UAE has made significant sacrifices since the start of the Coalition’s operations and has supported the brotherly Yemeni people at various stages.
The ministry noted that these developments raise legitimate questions about how to address them and their repercussions, especially at a time that demands the highest levels of coordination, restraint, and wisdom, while taking into account existing security challenges. It also requires considering the threats posed by terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda, the Houthis, and the Muslim Brotherhood, within the framework of international efforts to combat terrorism and extremism and promote de-escalation and stability.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that recent developments must be addressed responsibly and in a manner that prevents escalation, based on credible facts and ongoing coordination among the relevant parties. The goal is to preserve security and stability and safeguard shared interests. This also contributes to supporting the political solution and ending the crisis in Yemen.
