Axios
U.S. envoy for Yemen Tim Lenderking traveled to the Gulf on Wednesday in the aftermath of an attack by Houthi rebels that killed three people in Abu Dhabi.
Why it matters: Lenderking's trip was previously planned but became much more urgent after the attack threatened new escalation in the fighting in Yemen and more broadly in the region. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin also spoke Wednesday with Emirati Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Zayed.
- They discussed steps to tighten Emirati defenses against missile and drone attacks as well as enhanced maritime security to stop weapons flows, the UAE's ambassador to Washington said.
- Meanwhile, UAE intelligence director Ali al-Shamsi arrived in Washington for a previously scheduled trip that will include meetings with CIA director Bill Burns, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and senior members of Congress.
