Feb 6, 2022: According to a report by Reuters, US Marine General Frank McKenzie arrived in the UAE on Sunday to discuss efforts to bolster the Gulf state’s defenses following missile strikes launched by Houthi fighters.
In recent weeks, Iranian-linked Houthis have launched an unprecedented series of large-scale failed missile strikes on UAE targets, mobilizing Emirati and US air defenses.
The attacks highlight the failed UN-led efforts so far to end the war in Yemen, which since 2015 has pitted the Houthis against a Saudi-led military coalition that includes the United Arab Emirates.
Head of the central command, General McKenzie, who oversees US forces in the Middle East, said he moved up his planned visit in response to the Houthi attacks, hoping to underscore the US commitment to the Gulf state’s defense.
Earlier this month, the Pentagon announced the US deployment of advanced F-22 fighter jets and guided missile destroyer, USS Cole, to partner with the UAE Navy ahead of a port call in Abu Dhabi. McKenzie said the F-22s would provide the UAE with “one of the world’s best-looking radars” capable of detecting targets, including surface-to-surface cruise missiles and drones. He said USS Cole would operate in waters around the UAE, monitoring the shipment of illegal contraband.
The war in Yemen, which killed tens of thousands of people and caused a humanitarian crisis, is widely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Washington accuses Tehran of providing high-quality weapons to the Houthis.
Stay tuned to BaaghiTV for latest news and Updates!
US says ‘not sending troops to start a war with Russia’