Gargash lauds coalition strategy in Yemen war

Dubai - Gargash said that the coalition is successfully implementing its plans for Yemen, despite comments to the contrary from external observers.

Success by the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen gives the UAE and its allies new political tools that allow it to influence outcomes in the region, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash said on his official Twitter account.
"Success of Arab coalition led by Saudi Arabia significant alters pol tools in region. Our ability to influence our world is now tangible," the Tweet read.
Gargash's comment comes just days after forces loyal to exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi successfully took control of Al Anad Airbase in Lahj province from Houthi rebels, having already successfully retaken Aden with the support of 1,500 Gulf state troops.
The Saudi-owned Al Hayat newspaper reported that most of the troops involved had come from the UAE.
In another Tweet, Gargash said that the successful operation in Aden significantly changes the nature of the war in Yemen. "Aden changes shape of Yemen conflict. Ability now to build on political solution & alleviate humanitarian crisis. Arabs take charge," he said.
"Difficult for some to admit. Success in Aden & beyond successful strategy. Compare with other crisis lately. Arabs taking charge for once," added another Tweet.
Additionally, Gargash said that the coalition is successfully implementing its plans for Yemen, despite comments to the contrary from external observers. "Contrary to some observers, coalition led by Saudi Arabia had plan in Yemen crisis & achieving it. Its also tackling the humanitarian angle." "Patronising "advice" & "opinion" must take stock of ability of Arab coalition to successfully implement turnaround strategy. Arabs can do it," he added.
Gargash concluded his series of Tweets by urging the Houthis and former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh to end their insurgency against Hadi's government.
"Apply UN resolution 2216. Message to Saleh & Houthis. End insurgency against Yemen. The road ahead is clear, will they heed the advice?"
Bernd@Khaleejtimes.com

• MENA