Ex-US Soldiers Accused of Running UAE-Backed Assassination Squad
In a shocking revelation, a private U.S.-based security firm, Spear Operations Group, has been accused of running an assassination squad on behalf of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Yemen. The squad, allegedly led by Abraham Golan, was reportedly paid $1.5 million per month, plus significant bonuses for successful "missions" or confirmed kills.
Background: The UAE's Role in Yemen
The UAE has been a key player in the ongoing Yemeni Civil War, which began in 2015. The country, along with a Saudi-led coalition, has been involved in a military campaign aimed at restoring the government of President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi. However, the UAE's involvement in the conflict has been marked by controversy, with allegations of human rights abuses and support for extremist groups.
The UAE's targeting of Al-Islah, a legitimate Yemeni political party, is particularly concerning. Al-Islah is a member of the Islamic Action Front, a regional Islamist movement, but it is also a mainstream party that has been part of Yemen's government. The UAE views Al-Islah as a branch of the Muslim Brotherhood, a label that is often used to justify the suppression of Islamist groups.
The Role of Ex-US Soldiers
The involvement of former U.S. Special Forces soldiers in the assassination squad raises serious ethical and legal questions. The use of Western tactical expertise for targeted killings is a controversial practice that has been criticized by human rights groups and some lawmakers. The fact that these soldiers were working for a private security firm, rather than the U.S. government, further complicates the issue.
One specific incident cited in reports highlights the brazen nature of the squad's operations. In 2015, a drone-monitoried mission in Aden attempted to bomb the headquarters of a political leader, marking the first time such an operation was caught on camera. The incident underscores the level of sophistication and resources available to the squad.
Implications and Concerns
The allegations against Spear Operations Group and its leaders raise important questions about the privatization of warfare and the accountability of private security firms. If true, the involvement of ex-US soldiers in the assassination squad would be a disturbing example of the blurring of lines between the public and private sectors in the conduct of war.
The incident also highlights the need for greater transparency and oversight in the use of private security firms in conflict zones. As the use of these firms continues to grow, it is essential that governments and regulatory bodies take steps to ensure that they operate within the bounds of international law and do not engage in activities that undermine human rights or national security.
Ultimately, the allegations against Spear Operations Group and its leaders serve as a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and the need for accountability in the conduct of war.