Satellite images analyzed by The Associated Press have revealed the construction of a new airstrip on Abd al-Kuri Island near the Gulf of Aden, with workers spelling out “I LOVE UAE” next to the runway. The Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea have emerged as a battleground between the Houthi rebels and US-led forces, amid Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza. The construction on Abd al-Kuri Island is significant as it could allow a country to project power into the region, with the UAE’s presence on Socotra island chain sparking tensions in the past.
The United Arab Emirates stated that its presence on Socotra island is based on humanitarian grounds in cooperation with the Yemeni government and local authorities, emphasizing its commitment to promoting security, stability, and prosperity in Yemen. The Yemeni Embassy in Washington and Saudi Arabia, leading a coalition against the Houthis, did not provide responses to inquiries about the construction. Abd al-Kuri Island is closer to the Horn of Africa than to Yemen, making it strategically located for maritime and military activities in the region.
The construction on Abd al-Kuri Island includes an airstrip measuring about 3 kilometers in length, capable of accommodating various types of aircraft. Recent satellite imagery shows active work being done on the runway, including possibly paving the site. The increased activity on the island corresponds with reports of the US strengthening missile defenses on Socotra Island, although the US military has stated that it is not involved in the construction on Abd al-Kuri. Speculations have also emerged about the Emiratis allowing Israel to operate from Socotra, although Israel has not confirmed any presence on the island.
The conflict in Yemen has drawn in multiple parties, including the Saudi-led coalition and the UAE, deploying troops in the region. The Houthis have targeted ships in the area, mainly linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza, launching missiles toward Israel. President Joe Biden withdrew support from the Saudi-led coalition but later initiated airstrikes targeting the Houthis over their attacks on shipping. The construction of the airstrip on Abd al-Kuri Island is not the first mysterious development in the region, with previous reports of an airstrip being built on Mayun Island, also known as Perim Island, in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The strategic significance of Socotra Island has made it a focal point in the region, with its location on key trade routes attracting various interests. The island has seen clashes between different forces, including Yemeni separatists backed by the UAE, and allegations of Emiratis allowing Israeli operations from the island. Amid the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the broader Middle East, the construction of military infrastructure on remote islands highlights the complex dynamics and geopolitical rivalries shaping the region.
