The runway is likely built by the United Arab Emirates, which has long been suspected of expanding its military presence in the region.

A mysterious airstrip being built on a remote island in Yemen is nearing completion, according to satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press

A mysterious airstrip is reportedly near completion on a remote island off Yemen in a critical commercial shipping lane near the Gulf of Aden. The Associated Press analyzed satellite photos of the runway on Abd al-Kuri Island in the Indian Ocean,

The Houthis, who had on an almost weekly basis targeted ships using ballistic missiles and drones in waters near Yemen's shores to show their solidarity with the Palestinians, had long said they would cease these operations if the conflict ended.

The Houthis' leader said that the group 'will militarily support' Palestinians should Israel violate the ceasefire put in place.

The Yemen-based Houthis signaled a pause in their months-long attacks on commercial ships following a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.