UAE troops rotation to boost Yemen mission

Abu Dhabi - Deployment of second batch underlines UAE's commitment.

The second batch of UAE Armed Forces soldiers is preparing to replace the Emirati heroes in the Arab coalition forces led by Saudi Arabia in Yemen.
The General Command of the UAE's Armed Forces said on Monday that the first batch of its brave soldiers will return after being replaced with the second force to carry out its duties in Yemen, according to Wam.
Analysts said that deployment of the second batch is a sign of the country's "continued commitment" to the coalition and to Yemen's rightful government.
"Nothing changes, this is simply a renewal of the UAE's commitment that was launched to restore security, stability and the legitimate government of Yemen," said Riad Kahwaji, founder and CEO of Institute for Near East and Gulf Military Analysis (INEGMA).
"This is part of the mission," he told Khaleej Times.
Kahwaji noted that a rotation of units to and from the frontline in Yemen is important for the overall success of the Coalition's campaign against Houthi militia and forces loyal to ousted president Ali Abdullah Saleh. "It is vital to rotate troops in war zones," he said. "We need to give the troops time to rest, regroup and refresh."
Kahwaji's comments echo those of Dr Abdulkhaleq Abdulla, a professor of political science at the UAE University. "This shows determination. The UAE has started this and is willing to go through to the end," he said. "In a way it is a testament to the maturity of the UAE's Armed Forces. The UAE has come of age as a soft power in the region, when it is called upon."
The replacement of the first batch comes after it achieved several victories, including the liberation of the historical city of Marib and Marib Dam, which was rebuilt by the late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Citizens and residents also expressed support for the country's participation in Operation Restore Hope. The war, they said, will help end sectarian clashes and restore hope for Yemenis.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com