The new infrastructure on Zukar Island may enable aerial surveillance over strategic waterways, including the Gulf of Aden and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. As the Associated Press points out, during Israel's war with Hamas, the Houthis have carried out over a hundred attacks on ships in this area, sinking four vessels and killing at least nine sailors.
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Where is Zukar Island located?
How long is the runway on the island?
Who confirmed the delivery of asphalt to the island?
What companies are involved in the construction of the helipad?
An airstrip has been built on an island in Yemen. It is nearly 2 km long
The exact purpose of the landing site is unknown. Eleonora Ardemagni, in an interview with the Associated Press, an analyst from the Italian Institute of International Political Studies, points out that the construction of the airstrip may be important primarily in the context of countering Houthi smuggling activities, especially when it comes to arms smuggling.
The Associated Press reports that the runway on Zukar Island is almost 2 km long. Construction of the dock began in April, followed by clearing of the area along the runway. At the end of August, a layer of asphalt appeared, and in October the lane markings were painted.
A new airport on an island in Yemen. Companies from the United Arab Emirates had a hand in this
Dubai-based Saif Shipping and Marine Services confirmed that it had delivered asphalt to the island, likely used to build an airstrip on behalf of other companies in the United Arab Emirates. AP emphasizes that companies from the United Arab Emirates have been investing in runways in Yemen in recent years.
Zukar Island plays a strategic role in the Red Sea. In 1995, it was captured by Eritrea after a clash with Yemeni forces, and three years later an international court transferred it to Yemen's protection. After the Houthis captured the capital of Yemen in 2014, the island also fell into their hands.
In 2015, Saudi Arabia and the UAE entered the war, supporting the exiled government of Yemen and stopping the Houthi offensive. The island was retaken by forces loyal to Tariq Saleh, nephew of late Yemeni leader Ali Abdullah Saleh.
