How can the rebel Houthis be trusted?

The Houthi attack on a UAE humanitarian vessel shows the depths to which the group will sink. The ship was in service of the Arab coalition fighting the rebels in Yemen in the strategic Bab Al Mandab strait off the coast of Yemen. The UAE is investigating the issue, and it is quite worrying that the Iran-backed rebels are ignoring international rules of engagement. Even humanitarian missions are not spared. The UAE has played a pivotal role in rebuilding Yemen, and has contributed immensely to various charitable, developmental and reconstruction projects in the war-torn country. The fact that the Houthis had claimed responsibility for the attack on the UAE vessel proves they will go to any lengths to kill prospects for peace while plunging the region further into crisis. We wonder if the group and former president Saleh and his militia are serious about finding a solution. Iran’s role in precipitating the crisis cannot be denied as a relentless covert war is being waged with no concern for civilians.

This incident is also likely to have an adverse impact on international navigation, as a major chunk of oil is transported through this strategic channel. According to the US Energy Information Administration, more than 3.4 million barrels of oil per day passed through this 20-km wide strait. This incident has proved beyond any doubt that the Houthis cannot be trusted. They are indulging in brinkmanship, testing the Arab coalition’s patience. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been fighting on two fronts, namely exterminating terror nexus and supplying humanitarian relief to the war-ravaged people of Yemen. Yemen, one of the poorest countries needs a political solution. But that won’t be possible if the rebels continue to play their double game. The civil strife has already rendered millions homeless, and more than 6,000 dead. The country’s infrastructure is in ruins, and more than 25 per cent of people are without essential supplies. Do the Houthis care? No. The UAE does. This is a just fight for the people of Yemen.