Socotra: The UAE’s gradual strategy to establish control over the Socotra Archipelago has now extended to Socotra Airport, the island’s primary gateway to the rest of the world. The UAE has previously taken control of several critical facilities on the island.
According to Yemen News Agency, the UAE’s influence on the archipelago and its key facilities is facilitated by individuals associated with the Southern Transitional Council. These agents have been placed strategically to enable UAE forces to assert control over the airport. The Socotra community has expressed strong opposition to the transfer of the airport’s control to an Emirati firm named the Eastern Triangle, which is reportedly managed by an Emirati officer, Saad Al-Kaabi. The company is perceived as a facade for military and intelligence operations conducted by the UAE on the island.
In a bold demonstration, airport employees have unequivocally opposed the transfer, viewing the airport not merely as a civilian infrastructure but as a critical e
lement in maintaining national sovereignty. The situation on Socotra Island is exacerbated by a government that, while claiming legitimacy, has allowed the UAE and Saudi Arabia to expand their influence across Yemeni territories, resulting in unchecked corruption and further violations of Yemeni sovereignty.
The UAE’s controversial actions are part of a broader pattern observed in various countries, including Yemen, where it has leveraged its oil and gas wealth to engage in activities encouraged by major powers like the US, UK, and others. The UAE’s involvement in international espionage and its role in orchestrating coups and assassinations underscore its disregard for international laws and principles.
The General Authority of Civil Aviation and Meteorology in Sana’a has issued a statement vehemently opposing the attempt to hand over Socotra Airport’s management to the Eastern Triangle Company, labeling it a clear breach of national sovereignty. The authority has warned of the grave implications of this a
ction and reiterated its support for the airport employees’ stance against any external intervention.