Italy Lifts Arms Sales Ban to UAE

The Italian government announced today, Monday, the lifting of the ban on arms sales to the United Arab Emirates. The decision was made due to the UAE's cessation of its military role in the Yemeni conflict, as well as its efforts to support the war-torn state through investments aimed at stabilizing and rebuilding Yemen, according to a statement issued following a Cabinet meeting. Sources indicated that "since then, Italy has already eased restrictions on arms exports to the two Gulf countries in an attempt to reduce diplomatic tensions." Italy had halted missile sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE in January 2021, stating that "this is part of Rome's commitment to restoring peace in Yemen and protecting human rights there."