MM Report
SA’ANA: A senior Yemeni military official claimed that the United Arab Emirates had made covert contact with the Houthi leadership, urging it to carry out missile strikes on the Saudi city of Neom, a flagship project promoted by Riyadh as the centerpiece of its economic future.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official described the alleged approach as a “sensational and dangerous proposal”, saying the Emirati side had offered a package of political recognition, substantial financial support and military cooperation in return for attacks on Saudi territory. According to the claim, the offer included formal acceptance of the Houthi administration as Yemen’s legitimate government and long-term backing to strengthen its position in the region.
The official said the contacts were presented as a way to shift the balance of power in the Gulf and apply direct pressure on Saudi Arabia at a sensitive moment, given the symbolic and strategic importance of Neom. He did not provide documentary evidence for the claim, and it could not be independently verified.
The UAE has not publicly responded to the allegation, while Saudi officials have also remained silent. The Houthis have made no formal statement confirming or denying the account.
If substantiated, the claim would add a new and controversial dimension to the already complex war in Yemen, which has drawn in regional powers and left millions facing humanitarian crisis. It would also raise serious questions about behind-the-scenes maneuvering in a conflict where public positions often mask private calculations.
