The UAE was destined for a date with history on 9 February 2020 to celebrate the safe return of our heroes who, after joining the Arab coalition force in Yemen, accomplished their mission and national and humanitarian duties with all dedication, courage and competence. They set a remarkable example of sacrifice and left the coming generations heroic epics in determination, power and inspiration.
Top attendees of this celebration were His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashed Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and Their Highnesses the Rulers of the Emirates, who manifested a genuine time-old feature of the UAE, its rulers and people: to be faithful to all those who hoisted UAE banner high up in all fields domestically, regionally and globally, and served and defended their nation with all dedication. Faithfulness was rightly shown on that day by remembering our martyrs and paying tribute to their parents to keep their memory alive in the hearts and minds of our people.
The UAE’s role in Yemen since 2015 was not only military but also humanitarian and development-inspired in order to serve the Yemeni people and maintain their right to a decent life of freedom and peace. The UAE has been committed to alleviating Yemenis’ sufferings and supporting them as ever.
The battle in Yemen was not only against the rebel militia but also against the forces of extremism and terrorism, notably Al Qaeda. UAE’s Yemen mission there proved successful defeating terrorism in the south and providing protection to international navigation in one of the major waterways, hence highlighting UAE’s role as a nation for regional and international stability and security.
In Yemen, our valiant soldiers have shown exceptional heroism and world-class efficiency and professionalism and have driven home our centuries-old ethics, values and traditions assisting the wronged and supporting our brothers in time of need. Their contribution to sisterly Yemen will always bear witness of the greatness of the UAE, its people and leaders and of our armed forces’ mission to defend our soil and national achievements.
Specialized institutes, academies and think-tanks have a huge responsibility in the forthcoming period to study all the aspects of the UAE and Arab coalition force’s mission in Yemen to draw deep-seated military and humanitarian lessons. The Yemen mission was anything but casual in national and regional history. Rather, it was the wisest and most courageous decision in modern Arab history.
