UAE soldier killed in Yemen
Condolences paid by Armed Forces to family of deceased
SHARJAH // A UAE soldier who died in the line of duty in Yemen leaves behind a five-monthold son.
First Sgt Zakaria Sulaiman Obaid Al Zaabi was killed during Operation Restoring Hope, the Saudi- led offensive to restore the legitimate government of Yemen.
The serviceman was one of 15 brothers and sisters, and lived in his hometown of Kalba, in Sharjah’s eastern region. The death was announced yesterday by the General Command of the Armed Forces.
No other details were released. “The news came as a shock to us,” said Abdulmajid Al Zaabi, the serviceman’s brother.
“His brothers and sisters are in tears. Our mother took the news hard.”
Al Zaabi had seen his siblings two weeks ago and was a devoted son, Abdulmajid said.
“He was in constant contact with our mother,” he said. “He always called her up and checked on her.”
The elder brother said Al Zaabi was a beloved member of the family.
“We all favoured him because he was down to earth and lightened up the mood,” said Abdulmajid. “Everybody loved him. “He loved serving his country and loved the fact that he was in the Army.
“His death broke our hearts, but our solace is that he died serving his country and is a martyr in heaven.
“His martyrdom will always be remembered in our family and our town, for he brought us honour and pride. May he rest in peace.”
Al Zaabi will be laid to rest in his hometown.