UAE deploys troops in Yemeni island Socotra

Yemen’s alliance with the UAE may be coming to an end after the latter deployed forces in a Yemeni island, recognised by UNESCO as a world heritage site, without prior consultation with the exiled government, a senior Yemeni official said on Saturday.

The UAE is a major pillar in a Saudi-led coalition fighting Houthi rebels in northern Yemen, under the banner of restoring the authority of self-exiled Yemeni President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi.

The Emiratis, however, have carved out a zone of influence in southern Yemen over the past two years, setting up prisons and militias.

“The government is considering sending a letter to the UN demanding the dismissal of the Emiratis from the Yemeni intervention,” the official said. He spoke on condition of anonymity, because he wasn’t authorised to speak to the press.

Tanks and artillery

Over the past few days, the UAE has deployed some 300 soldiers, along with tanks and artillery, to the island of Socotra.

“The government had no idea whatsoever,” the official said.

Emirati Minister for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash said that the UAE has historic and family ties to Socotra. He posted his remarks on his official Twitter account on Friday, adding that amid the war in Yemen, “We will support (Socorta’s residents), in stability, health care, education, and living (conditions).”