UAE drawdown will change the dynamic of Yemen’s war

Significance

The separatists appear to have captured most of Aden. UAE officials say they will still provide assistance to their local partners, after the early July announcement that the UAE would begin a substantial drawdown of the armed forces deployed to Yemen as part of the coalition with Saudi Arabia to combat the Huthis.

Impacts

• The UAE’s formal de-prioritisation of the war enhances Huthi ability to solidify tribal support and allows them to secure further support.
• The policy shift will further affect already strained UAE ties with Saudi Arabia and its de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman.
• A renewed offensive on the Red Sea coast is now highly improbable.