A POSSIBLE DRONE ATTACK IN ABU DHABI

A POSSIBLE DRONE ATTACK IN ABU DHABI

Context:

On January 17, 2022, a possible drone attack caused an explosion that hit three oil tanks in Abu Dhabi. Another fire at Abu Dhabi International Airport killed three people and injured six.

Highlights:

• According to Abu Dhabi police, small flying objects were recovered, possibly from drones.
• They fell into two areas that may have caused an explosion and fire.
•  Another blast struck three fuel tankers near Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. in the Musaffah area.
• Two of the dead were identified as Indians, and one was a Pakistani national.
• Although Abu Dhabi police did not hand over any suspects, Yemen rebels in Houthi claimed responsibility.
• Earlier, Houthi-backed Houthi rebels claimed to have attacked several times, but UAE officials later denied it.

Background:

• The incident comes after years of war in Yemen, and a ship carrying the Emirate flag has been seized by the Houthis recently.

UAE-Yemen War:

• The UAE has been at war in Yemen since 2015.
• The UAE was also a vital member of the Saudi-led coalition attacking Iran-backed Houthi and ousted an international-backed government from power.
• Although the UAE has reduced the number of troops on the ground, it continues to engage in war and support essential troops against the Houthis.