UAE rejects allegations over Yemen role, reaffirms coordination with Saudi Arabia

December 31, Kathmandu: The United Arab Emirates has rejected allegations linking it to recent military tensions in Yemen, describing claims made in a statement issued by Saudi Arabia as containing “fundamental inaccuracies” regarding the UAE’s role in the country.

In a statement released by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UAE said it categorically denies exerting pressure on, or issuing directives to, any Yemeni party to carry out military operations that could undermine Saudi Arabia’s security or target its borders. The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security and sovereignty, describing bilateral relations as a cornerstone of regional stability.

The statement comes amid heightened sensitivities following developments in Yemen’s Hadhramaut and Al-Mahrah governorates and reports related to a military operation at the Port of Mukalla. Addressing these reports, the UAE said a shipment unloaded at the port did not include weapons and was intended solely for use by UAE forces operating in Yemen. It added that the shipment had been coordinated at a high level with Saudi Arabia and that there was an understanding the vehicles would not leave the port.

The UAE also expressed surprise at the targeting of the vehicles at Mukalla, noting that claims suggesting the shipment fueled the Yemeni conflict do not reflect its purpose or nature. It further stated that the relevant Coalition Forces’ announcement was issued without prior consultation with coalition member states.

Reiterating its broader position, the UAE said its presence in Yemen was at the request of the internationally recognised Yemeni government and within the framework of the Saudi-led Arab Coalition, with objectives including restoring legitimacy and combating terrorism. The statement highlighted threats posed by groups such as Al Qaeda and the Houthis, as well as broader regional security challenges.

While stressing the need for restraint and coordination to avoid escalation, the UAE called for addressing recent developments based on verified facts and existing mechanisms of cooperation, with the aim of preserving regional stability and supporting a political resolution to the Yemen conflict.

Saudi authorities have not issued a detailed public response to the UAE statement as of the time of publication, though both sides have repeatedly underscored the importance of coordination within the Coalition and maintaining strategic ties.