KATHMANDU, Dec 31: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strongly condemned statements issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia regarding the current developments in Yemen, rejecting what it described as “fundamental misrepresentations” of Abu Dhabi’s role in the conflict.
In a statement released by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), the UAE categorically denied allegations linking it to rising tensions among Yemeni parties or to any actions aimed at undermining Saudi Arabia’s security. The Ministry dismissed claims that the UAE had pressured or directed any Yemeni faction to carry out military operations against Saudi territory or its borders, calling such accusations “unjustified.”
Reaffirming its long-standing position, the UAE stressed its “permanent commitment” to the security, sovereignty and stability of Saudi Arabia, as well as to broader regional security. It underscored that the fraternal and historical ties between the two Gulf nations remain a cornerstone of regional stability and said it remains keen to maintain full coordination with Riyadh.
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The statement said the UAE’s engagement in Yemen since the outset of the conflict has focused on containing the situation, supporting de-escalation and promoting understandings that safeguard security and stability while protecting civilians. These efforts, it added, have been carried out in coordination with Saudi Arabia as part of the Arab Coalition.
Addressing claims made by the military spokesperson of the Saudi-led Coalition regarding a military operation at Al-Makha Port, the UAE rejected allegations related to the Yemeni conflict and noted that the statement was issued without consultation with coalition member states. The MoFA clarified that a shipment cited in the claims did not contain weapons and that boats seized at the port were not allocated to any Yemeni party. Instead, it said, the vessels were seized by UAE forces operating in Yemen.
According to the UAE MoFA, there was high-level coordination between the UAE and Saudi Arabia regarding the boats and it had been agreed that they would not leave the port until the UAE had completed their use at Al-Makha Port. It added that allegations circulating about the shipment and its purpose “do not reflect the truth.”
The UAE further emphasised that its presence in Yemen came at the invitation of the country’s legitimate government and within the framework of the Arab Coalition led by Saudi Arabia, with full respect for Yemen’s sovereignty. It highlighted the sacrifices made by the UAE since the launch of coalition operations and its continued support for the Yemeni people.
Warning that recent developments raise “legitimate questions” about the trajectory of engagement and its consequences, the UAE called for the highest levels of coordination, restraint and wisdom. It stressed the need to consider ongoing security challenges including threats posed by Al-Qaeda, ISIS and the Houthi militias, within the broader international effort to combat terrorism and extremism.
The UAE has also called for handling the situation responsibly to prevent further escalation, based on verified facts and existing coordination mechanisms. It said such an approach is essential to preserving shared interests, maintaining regional security and stability, and supporting a political solution to end the Yemen crisis.
