Abu Dhabi (TDI): The United Arab Emirates and the United States held high-level discussions on unfolding regional developments, with a particular focus on Yemen and Gaza, as concerns continue to mount over stability in the Middle East.
Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan received a phone call from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday, during which both sides exchanged views on the evolving security and humanitarian situations across the region.
During the conversation, Sheikh Abdullah and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio exchanged views on several matters of mutual concern, notably the ongoing situation in Gaza and recent developments in Yemen.
Sheikh Abdullah reaffirmed the UAE’s firm commitment to close coordination with the United States and other international partners to strengthen lasting peace and enhance regional security and stability for the benefit of people across the region.
The conversation comes at a sensitive moment, especially in Yemen, where the Arab Coalition to Support Legitimacy announced it had carried out a “limited” airstrike targeting two shipments of smuggled weapons and military equipment in the port city of Mukalla in southern Yemen.
The discussions come amid shifting dynamics on the ground in southern Yemen, following recent territorial gains by the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a UAE-backed group.
The talks are also taking place against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, including reports of a cancelled joint defense agreement between Yemen and the UAE, as well as allegations by Saudi Arabia that Abu Dhabi is supporting STC military activity near the Saudi border, claims the UAE has firmly denied.
The coalition said the operation was aimed at preventing the flow of arms that could further fuel instability in the war-torn country.
Yemen remains deeply affected by years of conflict, with periodic escalations raising fears of wider regional spillover. Both the UAE and the US have repeatedly stressed the need for political solutions alongside measures to curb violence and protect civilians.
Discussions also covered the situation in Gaza, where continued hostilities and humanitarian concerns have drawn sustained international attention. Abu Dhabi and Washington have previously coordinated diplomatic efforts calling for de-escalation, humanitarian access, and steps toward lasting peace.
The call reflects the close strategic partnership between the UAE and the United States, as well as their shared interest in addressing regional crises through diplomatic engagement, security cooperation, and humanitarian support.
Minahil Khurshid holds a master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from CIPS, NUST. She has a strong interest in current affairs, geopolitics, and policy analysis.
