UAE, Saudi Arabia Deny Talks on Yemen Offensive

The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have categorically denied media reports suggesting they are in talks with the United States regarding a potential ground offensive in Yemen against the Houthi group. UAE officials labeled the reports as 'wild unsubstantiated stories,' refuting claims from outlets like The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg that suggested ongoing discussions about military maneuvers along the Red Sea coast. Both Gulf nations emphasized their dissociation from any such military plans, reiterating their commitment to diplomatic approaches amid ongoing regional tensions. The denials come against the backdrop of a complex history, where the UAE previously participated in a Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, but largely withdrew in 2019 and supported a 2022 truce. Recent Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping and escalated U.S. airstrikes have heightened geopolitical tensions, making accurate reporting especially critical. Officials stress the need for caution against speculative media narratives that could influence policy and public perception in the region.