The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has firmly denied recent media reports suggesting its involvement in preparations for a potential land offensive in Yemen aimed at ousting the Iran-backed Houthi movement from the capital, Sanaa. In a statement released on April 15, 2025, UAE Assistant Minister for Political Affairs Lana Nusseibeh described these reports as "wild unsubstantiated stories" that deserve the dubious title of "misleading-news-of-the-week."
Reports from major outlets including CNN, the Wall Street Journal, and Bloomberg have indicated that discussions are underway for Yemeni forces to reclaim control of strategic locations such as Sanaa, the Port of Hodeidah, and other northern territories currently held by the Houthis. Nusseibeh's comments came in response to these claims, which have stirred concerns regarding the UAE's military intentions in the region.
Additionally, the UAE's denial was echoed by a Saudi official, reinforcing the notion that both Gulf states are distancing themselves from any plans for a renewed military offensive in Yemen. The Wall Street Journal reported on April 14 that Yemeni factions were allegedly coordinating a ground offensive along the Red Sea coast, potentially leveraging U.S. bombing campaigns against the Houthis to their advantage. Bloomberg further reported that Yemeni forces opposed to the Houthis are reportedly in discussions with U.S. and Gulf allies regarding a possible land offensive.
The backdrop to these developments is a complex history of conflict in Yemen, which has been embroiled in civil war since 2014, when the Houthis seized Sanaa. The UAE was part of a Saudi-led coalition that intervened militarily in 2015 to support the internationally recognized Yemeni government against the Houthis. However, the UAE significantly reduced its military footprint in Yemen by 2019, and major hostilities have been largely paused since a truce was established in 2022.
The situation escalated recently when U.S. President Donald Trump directed a more aggressive military approach against the Houthis. On March 15, 2025, the U.S. military launched an intensified bombing campaign aimed at compelling the Houthis to cease their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. This campaign has reportedly targeted the Houthis for 32 consecutive days, resulting in the deaths of senior officials within the group and the destruction of critical weapons manufacturing facilities.
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has taken additional steps by ordering the deployment of a second aircraft carrier, along with more squadrons and air defense assets to the region, signaling a robust U.S. military presence in response to the ongoing threats posed by the Houthis.
The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have been increasingly aggressive, launching attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea since November 2023. This escalation is purportedly in solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza conflict. In stark terms, President Trump warned the Houthis that if their attacks did not cease, "hell will rain down upon you like nothing you have ever seen before."
Despite the ongoing tensions, the situation remains fluid. Analysts have noted that the coalition forces, which include various factions within Yemen, face significant challenges due to their differing agendas and the complexities of the conflict. The Red Sea coast, where the Wall Street Journal reported potential offensive plans, has seen previous military efforts that were ultimately unsuccessful, particularly during a major assault on Hodeidah, which is the largest port controlled by the Houthis.
Saudi Arabia had previously wound down its military campaign in Yemen, pivoting towards peace talks and a truce in 2022, shortly before entering into a diplomatic rapprochement with Iran. This shift has raised questions about how the current dynamics will play out, especially with the U.S. taking a more aggressive stance against the Houthis.
As the situation develops, the UAE and Saudi Arabia's positions remain crucial in determining the future of Yemen and the broader implications for regional stability. The responses from both nations indicate a desire to manage the narrative and maintain a strategic posture without escalating military involvement further.
With the ongoing U.S. military operations and the Houthis' persistent threats to maritime security, the stakes are high. The international community watches closely as the situation unfolds, hoping for a resolution that can bring lasting peace to a region long plagued by conflict.
In summary, the UAE's recent denials of involvement in military offensives against the Houthis highlight the intricate web of alliances and hostilities that characterize the Yemeni conflict. While the potential for renewed military action exists, both the UAE and Saudi Arabia seem to be advocating for diplomatic solutions rather than further escalation.
