The United Arab Emirates has always given a helping hand to those Arabs in need and favored peace over war. However, it is now suffering because of the short memories, lack of loyalty and ingratitude of those who should have reciprocated this goodwill.
The late leader of the emirates, Sheikh Zayed, may he rest in peace, was the driving force behind several initiatives to support and unite Arab nations across the region, most particularly his fellow brothers and sisters in Yemen.
It was in this spirit that the United Arab Emirates joined the alliance formed earlier this year to protect the Yemenis against Iran’s imperialist ambitions. One sect in that country has sought to undermine the majority’s strong Arab identity and sentiments, with a total disregard for international law and negotiated agreements.
Saudi Arabia, under the firm leadership of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, launched Operation Decisive Storm, in a rare alliance of Arab and international forces that included the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf states.
This show of unity sent a message to current and future generations that the countries in the Gulf region are determined to protect and safeguard their mutual interests against outside aggressors.
For those who may not remember, the Gulf states had previously partnered with international forces to liberate Kuwait. This was a historic and unforgettable event that demonstrated the authenticity of the blood ties between the Gulf nations led by their great leaders.
The people of the United Arab Emirates have now been dealt a heavy blow with the tragic loss of 45 of their sons in Yemen. But even in this dark time they have proven their resilience and toughness, along with their heroic and brave army. Many thousands have gone out to hospitals to donate blood for their soldiers on the frontlines.
The martyrs will remain a source of pride in the hearts of people across the region. They have lost this life but will live forever in heaven. True heroes change the course of history, and so will these young men, having made the ultimate sacrifice so that others can live in peace, honor and dignity.
It should not be forgotten that 10 Saudis and five Bahrainis were also martyred in one day recently. They lost their lives protecting the people here against those predators with expansionist designs in the region, and in support of their brethren in Yemen.
These sacrifices send a clear message that the people of the Gulf are not soft and live lives of luxury making them averse to taking up arms in self-protection. Many who were under this illusion have been forced to reassess their entire mode of thinking.
The martyrdom of these soldiers, rather than undermine morale, have instead strengthened the belief of their parents, families and friends in God and the stance taken by their leaders.
The world respects the powerful. The Gulf has shown that it will not be dictated to by those powerful nations seeking traction in the region. It has taken the initiative and gained respect across the globe. We will not forget our martyrs. Each of them will remain engraved in our collective memory, and is a reminder that in every crisis there is an opportunity. The one we have just grasped, demonstrating our iron will and unity, will ensure we have a safe and secure future.
