The United States is moving military aircraft, including fighter jets and drones, from the United Arab Emirates to Qatar, the Wall Street Journal reported. The move is the result of the UAE’s decision not to allow the US to carry out air strikes on Yemen and Iraq from the Al Dhafra air base in Abu Dhabi, according to unnamed US officials. The US is allegedly transferring the equipment to Al Udeid air base in Qatar, where its use will not be restricted. The officials explained that the UAE “has grown increasingly nervous that it could be targeted by Iranian proxies in the region if it is seen to be publicly aiding US military operations.”
Houthis announce ‘fourth stage of escalation’
The Yemen-based Houthis declared on Friday the commencement of what they refer to as “the fourth stage of escalation.” This phase revolves around expanding the scope of their military operations to the Mediterranean Sea. Furthermore, the militia warned that they would impose sanctions on “all ships of companies linked to the occupation [Israel] ports from passing through our area of operations, regardless of their destination,” if the Israeli military proceeds with their planned invasion of Rafah. “The Yemeni armed forces, based on the support of the beloved Yemeni people and all the free people of the nation, will not hesitate to prepare for broader and stronger stages of escalation until the aggression is stopped and the siege on the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip is lifted,” the group added on Telegram.