An estimated 20,000 fighters involved in the Saudi-led invasion of Yemen split in half earlier this month, with half backed by the UAE and a separatist movement, and the other half Saudi-backed forces loyal to the Hadi government.
That fighting has raged, but the Saudis and UAE had talked of working something out. Thursday suggests the chances of a deal are shrinking, with the UAE getting directly involved in the fighting, and launching airstrikes against Saudi-backed government forces.
The UAE confirmed its involvement in the airstrikes, saying it was engaged in self defense of its forces, as well as civilians threatened by “terrorist militias,” and insisting it was in keeping with international law.
Yemen’s President Hadi, however, is angry with the “blatant aerial bombardment,” and is calling for the UN Security Council to hold a session. Hadi also called on the Saudis to directly intervene militarily against the UAE.
Saudi officials haven’t addressed that possibility, but historic closeness to the UAE makes it unlikely. Still, this could mean a third war-within-a-war for Yemen.
Yep — UAE between hammer and an anvil. UAE wanted to withdraw, then it stayed helping Saudis and Hadi supporters to recover sites taken by separatists. But UAE must have received a full load of US and UK unhappiness. There are too many UAE Interest around to be damaged — so, deal cutting between two may be in peril. If this continues — current darling of US establishment, went rougue, and can get in trouble.
The Empire’s hair is on fire and it is attempting to put it out with a hammer… Stand BACK!
Hadi is not a president, he’s a Saudi-installed dictator, and it’s pretty ballsy of him to suddenly get indignant about foreigners bombing his country. If the UN must get involved it should be to ensure true self-determination for Yemen’s people.
We need international law that is above all petty national law and give it some teeth.
I thought they were allies.
To quote Rage Against the Machine- “SLEEP NOW IN THE FIRE!”