Despite tragedy, UAE will fight on for Yemen

Free flow of oil through the Straits is essential for global economy.

When the GCC launched operations in March to drive out Al Houthis from their positions, the UAE, one of the partners, knew it was fraught with risks. There were three main foes, the terrain was difficult; there were rival factions and clans to counter. The perils were mounting with each passing day, and the main objective was to strike Iran-backed Houthis who had taken over Aden, the strategic port city in the south of the country. Al Qaeda was lurking in the shadows, vulture-like, hoping to make a comeback riding on the spoils of conflict as the Daesh threat loomed large. Meanwhile, loyalists of President Hadi wanted quick solutions to an internal crisis which threatened to consume the Gulf region and the wider Arab world if decisve action was not taken.
The air strikes succeeded in slowing down the progress of the rebels and terrorists, but the UAE took the initiative to send in ground troops last month to hold on to gains made from the air. Men and machine were put in the line of fire and they succeeded in retaking Aden. The all-Emirati operation secured many areas in the south and provided succour to the people. Seven Emirati lives were lost in the early offensive. But on Friday, 45 brave soldiers died fighting - for a free Yemen - and a safer region. Reports said a blast at an ammunitions dump claimed their lives.
It was the ultimate sacrifice, which will never be forgotten. And if the enemies of the UAE think this country will take a step back from the offensive, they are mistaken. The battle to reclaim and rebuild Yemen will continue and the UAE will be part of the action. Retribution will be swift, it will be hard-hitting and sweeping. The terrorists will have to pay for this wave of violence unleashed by them.
Iran cannot escape blame for creating the Houthi militia in the first place. It has provided moral support and armed them to heap more burden on the long-suffering Yemenis, who deserve peace.
The Gulf has remained calm despite protests and uprisings in other parts of the Arab world. First, it was Bahrain when GCC forces intervened quickly four years ago to quell Iran-backed protests.
Yemen is different because the GCC is in open conflict with terror groups, who are intent on sowing sectarian discord. Gulf and Arab countries will not allow Iran's writ to run riot in the country.
A full Arab response can be expected after this tragedy. Thanks to the courage and sacrifice of UAE troops, Sanaa, the capital, is within sight and forces must recapture the city to control the south of the country.

• Homage paid to martyred Emirati soldiers