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By Theo Burman
Live News Reporter
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A mysterious airstrip under construction on Abd al-Kuri Island, Yemen, is nearing completion, according to new satellite images.
The images show the airstrip being built near the Gulf of Aden, a critical waterway for global shipping and the energy trade.
Newsweek contacted the Yemeni Ministry for Foreign Affairs for more information on the construction via email.
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Why It Matters
The Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea have faced disruptions due to attacks by Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels. These waters are vital for commercial shipping heading to Europe, and the airstrip could become a key landing zone for military operations aimed at securing the area.
Additionally, the Houthi rebel group continues a campaign of drone and missile strikes in the area, which has damaged regional stability.
What To Know
Satellite photos from The Associated Press from January 7 show trucks and heavy machinery on a newly paved north-south runway on Abd al-Kuri Island. The airstrip, which appears to be 2.4 kilometers [1.5 miles] long, is still under construction.
Despite its size, The Associated Press reports that it is likely suitable for private jets and smaller military aircraft, but not for large commercial planes or heavy bombers.
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The airstrip's construction has been attributed to the United Arab Emirates, a country that has previously expanded its military presence in Yemen. The UAE has supported the Saudi-led coalition against the Houthis, and similar infrastructure projects have been completed in Mocha and Dhubab, Yemen, in recent years.
The strategic location of Abd al-Kuri Island makes it a valuable military asset. Its remoteness and distance from mainland Yemen also reduce the risk of direct seizure by Houthi forces.
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However, the airstrip falls within the range of Houthi missiles and drones along the Red Sea, potentially making it a target in the ongoing conflict.
The airstrip is unregistered with the International Civil Aviation Organization. Yemen, as a member state of ICAO, is expected to declare such airfields, but no information has been provided.
What People Are Saying
A spokesperson for the United Arab Emirates government said: "Any presence of the UAE is based on humanitarian grounds that is carried out in cooperation with the Yemen government and local authorities.
"The UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to all international endeavors aimed at facilitating the resumption of the Yemeni political process, thereby advancing the security, stability and prosperity sought by the Yemeni populace."
What Happens Next
The airstrip is nearing completion, with the final stretch of track likely to be operational within the next few months.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
Do you have a story we should be covering? Do you have any questions about this article? Contact LiveNews@newsweek.com.
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