UAE Condemns Houthi Threats Against Saudi Arabia

Doha, Qatar Jul 22, 2026 ALN: Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates has condemned in the strongest terms the statements made by the Houthi group against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including threats to impose a maritime blockade on the kingdom. This condemnation comes amid escalating tensions in the region, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict in Yemen, where the Houthi movement has been a significant player since the civil war began in 2014. The conflict has drawn in various regional and international actors, complicating the situation further and making it a focal point of geopolitical rivalries in the Middle East.

The Houthis, officially known as Ansar Allah, are a group with roots in Yemen's Zaidi Shia community. They emerged from a movement that initially sought to address local grievances, but have since transformed into a formidable military force. The group has been involved in a protracted conflict against the internationally recognized Yemeni government, which is supported by a Saudi-led coalition that includes several Arab states and has been active since 2015. The coalition's intervention was prompted by the Houthis' capture of the Yemeni capital, Sana'a, and their subsequent advances into other regions of the country.

The Houthis have frequently launched attacks against Saudi Arabia, including missile strikes and drone attacks, prompting a robust military response from Riyadh and its allies. The recent threats to impose a maritime blockade represent a significant escalation in their tactics, which could severely disrupt shipping routes in the Red Sea, a vital corridor for global trade. This blockade would not only affect Saudi Arabia but could also have ramifications for international shipping, as the Red Sea is one of the busiest maritime routes in the world, linking Europe and Asia.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of the UAE called on the international community to ensure the implementation of the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 2216 on Yemen and Resolution 2722 on the rights and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. Resolution 2216, adopted in 2015, demands the Houthis cease their attacks and withdraw from territories they have seized, while Resolution 2722, adopted in 2019, emphasizes the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in international waters, particularly in light of threats posed by non-state actors. The invocation of these resolutions highlights the UAE's commitment to upholding international law and maintaining stability in the region.

The UAE's call for adherence to these resolutions underscores the broader implications of the Houthi threats, not just for Saudi Arabia but for international maritime security. The Red Sea is a critical artery for maritime trade, with millions of barrels of oil and goods passing through its waters daily. Any disruption could have significant economic repercussions, potentially leading to increased shipping costs and delays that would affect global markets. The potential for a maritime blockade raises concerns not only for Saudi Arabia but also for global energy supplies, as a significant portion of the world's oil travels through these waters.

The Ministry reaffirmed that freedom of navigation in international waterways is a right guaranteed under international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This convention establishes the legal framework for the use and conservation of the world's seas and oceans, promoting the peaceful use of maritime resources and ensuring that states can navigate freely. The UAE's emphasis on this point is particularly relevant given the rising tensions in the region, where several nations have expressed concerns over the increasing aggressiveness of the Houthi movement and its potential to disrupt maritime operations.

The Ministry reaffirmed the UAE’s full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and its support for all measures aimed at safeguarding its security and stability. This solidarity is rooted in the strong bilateral relations between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which have been forged through shared interests, cultural ties, and a mutual commitment to regional stability. The two nations have often collaborated in various military and economic initiatives, particularly in the context of the Yemen conflict. Their partnership is also seen as a counterbalance to Iranian influence in the region, making their alliance crucial in the current geopolitical landscape.

The implications of the Houthi threats extend beyond the immediate regional context. They highlight the fragile state of security in the Gulf and Red Sea regions, where geopolitical rivalries and sectarian tensions often intersect. The Houthis are backed by Iran, which has been accused of providing them with military support, including weapons and training. This relationship has raised alarms in Saudi Arabia and its allies, who view Iranian influence in Yemen as a direct threat to their national security. The perception of Iran's involvement complicates the conflict, as it intertwines with broader regional power struggles and sectarian divides.

Moreover, the threats from the Houthis also come at a time when the international community is grappling with the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, which is one of the world's worst. Millions of Yemenis are suffering from famine, disease, and widespread violence, leading to calls for a renewed focus on peace negotiations. The UAE's condemnation of the Houthi threats serves as a reminder of the need for a comprehensive approach to the Yemen conflict, one that addresses both security concerns and the dire humanitarian situation. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a humanitarian catastrophe, with millions displaced and in desperate need of aid.

In conclusion, the UAE's strong response to the Houthi threats against Saudi Arabia reflects a broader commitment to regional stability and adherence to international law. As tensions continue to rise, the role of the international community in supporting peace efforts and ensuring the security of maritime routes will be crucial in preventing further escalation and fostering a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Yemen. The situation remains fluid, and the potential for further military confrontations looms large, emphasizing the need for diplomatic engagement and efforts to address the underlying issues fueling the conflict.