The diplomatic push follows a meeting in Riyadh between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and UAE Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, the first senior visit from Abu Dhabi since relations collapsed earlier this year. Saudi Arabia is seeking to leverage Emirati influence over anti-Houthi forces such as the STC and Tarik Saleh's NRF as Saudi cities face increasing missile and drone attacks. In exchange, the UAE may seek the banning of the Islah party and concessions regarding disputes in Sudan and Somaliland.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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White House Pushes Saudi UAE Unified Military Command against Houthis
War20 days ago
US officials are calling for the integration of Saudi and Emirati forces in Yemen to halt rebel gains near the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The White House is privately urging Saudi Arabia and the UAE to resolve their diplomatic rift and establish a unified military command that would incorporate the UAE-trained Southern Giants Brigades, according to reports. The proposal also includes the potential use of Israeli intelligence and private security support, though Riyadh remains wary of overt cooperation with Israel.
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