Flights at Yemen’s Aden international airport were suspended Thursday, highlighting the escalating tensions stemming from the widening rift between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and its impact on the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
Airport Closure and Conflicting Accounts
The airport, a crucial gateway for areas of Yemen not under Houthi control, saw passengers stranded as they awaited information regarding their flights. Later Thursday, sources in Yemen indicated that flights between Aden and destinations outside the UAE would resume, though this could not be immediately verified.
The disruption in air traffic stemmed from disagreements over restrictions placed on flights to the UAE. However, accounts of the events and responsibility for the shutdown were contradictory. The UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) controls the transport ministry within the internationally recognized government.
The transport ministry accused Saudi Arabia of imposing an air blockade, alleging that Riyadh required all flights to pass through Saudi Arabia for additional security checks. When the ministry voiced its objections, Saudi Arabia reportedly clarified that the restrictions applied only to flights between Aden and the UAE.
A Saudi source denied any involvement in restricting flights, stating that the internationally recognized Yemeni government itself had imposed the requirement on flights between Aden and the UAE to de-escalate tensions. This source further claimed that the STC-controlled ministry then responded by ordering a complete shutdown of air traffic in protest.
However, an official source within the transport minister’s office refuted this account, asserting that the minister had not issued any directives to close the airport. Attempts to reach the leadership of the internationally recognized government, currently based in Saudi Arabia since the STC’s recent territorial gains, for comment were unsuccessful.
Broader Regional Implications
The UAE Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the airport closure. This incident represents the latest development in a deepening crisis that has revealed a significant divide between Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Saudi Arabia recently accused the UAE of supporting the STC’s advance toward its borders, declaring its national security a “red line.” In response, the UAE announced it would be withdrawing its remaining forces from Yemen. This followed a Saudi-led coalition airstrike on a port in Mukalla, which the coalition stated was used to support the separatists with foreign military aid.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flight suspensions at Aden airport?
Air traffic was suspended due to a dispute over restrictions on flights to the UAE, though accounts of the specific events and who was responsible differ.
Which countries are involved in the conflict in Yemen?
The conflict involves Yemen’s internationally recognized government, backed by Saudi Arabia, and the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC), backed by the UAE, as well as the Houthi movement.
What is the current status of the UAE’s involvement in Yemen?
The UAE has announced it is withdrawing its remaining forces from Yemen following accusations from Saudi Arabia of supporting the STC.
As tensions continue to rise between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, what impact might this have on the future of the conflict in Yemen and the humanitarian situation for its citizens?
Related reading