Abu Dhabi, UAE – A UAE soldier critically injured during the 2015 Operation Decisive Storm in Yemen passed away on Tuesday evening, marking a solemn moment in the country’s history of military sacrifice.
Mohammed Atiq Salem bin Saluma Al Khaili, who had remained in intensive care for nearly 10 years, succumbed to his injuries, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Defence.
The Ministry expressed its deepest condolences to the soldier’s family, honoring his bravery and commitment to serving the nation.
Al Khaili had been among the UAE Armed Forces personnel deployed in Yemen to support the Saudi-led coalition against the Houthi rebels. His long struggle in critical care symbolizes the profound human cost of the conflict.
Condolences from Leadership
Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, visited Al Khaili’s family to offer his condolences.
Sheikh Theyab attended the mourning majlis held in the Abu Samra area of Al Ain, reaffirming the nation’s solidarity with the family of the fallen hero.
The UAE leadership has consistently supported the families of fallen soldiers, recognizing their sacrifice as a cornerstone of the country’s values.
The Ministry of Defence has also reiterated its commitment to honoring the memory of soldiers who have given their lives or sustained life-altering injuries in service to the nation.
A Legacy of Sacrifice
Al Khaili’s passing comes nearly a decade after one of the most tragic chapters in the UAE’s military history. In September 2015, 45 Emirati soldiers lost their lives in a single attack when a surface-to-surface missile struck an ammunition depot in Yemen.
It was the deadliest incident for UAE forces in the country’s military history. The attack brought the total number of UAE military fatalities in Yemen to 52 at the time.
The soldiers were part of a mission to restore stability in Yemen, where the Houthi rebels had seized control of significant parts of the country.
The UAE’s participation in the Saudi-led coalition was instrumental in efforts to reclaim territories and support the internationally recognized Yemeni government.
Public and Official Tributes
As news of Al Khaili’s passing spread, tributes poured in on social media, reflecting a mix of grief and pride among the UAE public.
Many highlighted his resilience and the enduring sacrifice of UAE soldiers in Yemen. Public figures also extended their condolences to the family, emphasizing the nation’s collective respect for its heroes.
The Ministry of Defence continues to provide support to the families of fallen and injured soldiers, ensuring they receive financial, social, and emotional aid.
Such efforts underscore the UAE’s commitment to its servicemen and women, both in life and in the aftermath of their sacrifices.
Remembering the Heroes
Al Khaili’s death serves as a poignant reminder of the UAE’s role in regional stability and the profound costs borne by its armed forces.
The nation continues to honor those who have served and sacrificed, ensuring their legacy inspires future generations.
As the UAE prepares to mark the New Year with celebrations like the Sheikh Zayed Festival, the memory of its fallen heroes remains deeply woven into the fabric of the nation’s identity.