As the conflict in Yemen continues to evolve, India is carefully observing the situation without taking sides in the emerging tensions between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. This neutral stance underscores India's commitment to maintaining strong economic and diplomatic ties with both nations.
The conflict in Yemen, which has been ongoing for years, has recently seen a potential shift in dynamics with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who were previously allies against the Houthi rebels, now appearing to back opposing sides. The UAE has been supporting the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a secessionist movement in southern Yemen, while Saudi Arabia continues to back the internationally recognized government. Recent Saudi bombings in Mukalla, a port city in Yemen, have further highlighted these growing tensions.
India has historically maintained a neutral position during the Yemen Civil War. In 1994, India provided medical treatment to war-wounded individuals from Yemen. More recently, India undertook "Operation Rahat" to evacuate Indian citizens and foreign nationals from Yemen during the Saudi-led military intervention in 2015.
India's decision to refrain from taking sides reflects its strategic interests in the region. The Middle East is crucial for India's energy security and the safety of its diaspora. India has a significant Indian diaspora in Yemen, with approximately 4,000-4,500 Indian nationals residing there. Furthermore, India's economic ties with both Saudi Arabia and the UAE are substantial. In fiscal year 2021-22, the total bilateral trade between India and Yemen reached $1.07 billion. India exports various goods to Yemen, including rice, wheat, sugar, and pharmaceutical products.
Given these factors, India's approach is to maintain a delicate balance in its relationships with all regional powers, promoting stability and peace while safeguarding its own interests. India can play a constructive role by supporting diplomatic efforts, inclusive peace processes, and humanitarian aid to mitigate the conflict's long-term risks. India has a long-standing friendly relationship with Yemen and has prioritized humanitarian needs by providing medicines and food commodities.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has broader implications for the region and the world. It exacerbates humanitarian crises, disrupts supply chains, and heightens tensions among neighboring countries. The conflict also has implications for global oil prices and trade routes.
As an emerging global power, India has a strategic interest in the Middle East, and the conflict in Yemen presents challenges to its foreign policy. India's continued neutral stance aims to protect its economic, strategic, and diaspora interests while contributing to regional stability.
