
Is UAE secretly helping Houthis fight Saudi-backed forces in Yemen?
What Happened?
The UAE is reportedly providing intelligence to the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen against Saudi-backed forces, raising questions about its strategic interests in the region.
Key points
- The UAE has reportedly resumed operations in Yemen by providing intelligence to the Houthis.
- The UAE and Houthis are ideological opponents but share overlapping interests in Yemen.
- The UAE withdrew its forces from Yemen in January 2026 amid a rift with Saudi Arabia.
- Reports indicate that UAE-aligned Yemeni forces are assisting the Houthis against Saudi-backed forces.
- The UAE has advanced intelligence capabilities, including a covert surveillance project named 'Raven'.
- The Houthis have successfully targeted Saudi-backed commanders, indicating effective intelligence sharing.
Key insights
- The UAE's support for the Houthis could indicate a shift in alliances in the Middle East.
- If the UAE successfully regains influence in Yemen, it may alter the balance of power against Saudi Arabia.
- The ongoing conflict may escalate further if the UAE continues its covert operations.
Why it matters
This development could reshape the power dynamics in Yemen and impact regional stability.
Entities
Source
India Today