Introduction
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has drawn significant attention from both the United States and the United Kingdom. The two powers have been pivotal in supporting and indirectly driving the aggressive actions of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. This article delves into the reasons for this support and the implications of these actions.
Unpredictable Peace Negotiations and Military Pressures
In the pursuit of peace and negotiation, the United States and the UK have employed military means to put pressure on the conflicting parties. For example, in the areas controlled by the Houthi rebels, the US Department of Defense targeted three radar platforms. This action, taken last week, marks a direct escalation of the U.S. involvement in the Yemeni conflict. Additionally, the US and UK have continued to support the coalition led by Saudi Arabia through limited military operations.
Direct Intervention and Escalation
While the U.S. indirectly supported the Saudi-led aggression in Yemen over the past 18 months, last week saw a direct intervention. The Department of Defense disclosed that the U.S. had targeted Saudi Arabia's strategic radar platforms. This move was made in response to the recent attack on a funeral ceremony, where hundreds of people were killed. Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, has attempted to disclaim responsibility for this crime, deflecting the blame onto others.
The Role of the US and UK in the Conflict
The fingerprints of the U.S. and the UK in the Yemen conflict are quite visible. The aggressor coalition, which includes Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other countries supposedly working for money, has benefited from the support and guidance of these two powers. The United States is at the forefront of this coalition, providing both diplomatic and military backing.
Strategic Interests and Influence
It is clear that the strategic interests of the U.S. and the UK extend far beyond mere humanitarian concerns. For instance, if Saudi Arabia's primary export was not oil and gas but something like oranges, the impact on U.S. and UK policies would likely be minimal. The Bab al-Mandab strait, a crucial maritime passage connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, plays a vital role in global shipping and energy supply. The movements observed by U.S. and UK military delegations in the Yemeni islands suggest a strategic intent to maintain control over this strategic waterway.
Conclusion
The support from the U.S. and the UK for Saudi Arabia in the Yemen conflict is highly complex and multi-layered. Their actions reflect broader geopolitical interests and military alliances. While the humanitarian impact is undeniable, the geopolitical implications for the region and beyond should not be underestimated.