US general calls for probe into alleged Saudi, UAE 'arms-links' with Al-Qaeda

US General Joseph Votel has called for a probe into reports that American weapons have fallen into the hands of militants in Yemen, including Al-Qaeda, via Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

"We have to look more closely at the allegations in this particular situation to find out what happened," Votel told the Senate Armed Services Committee. "We will have to examine that better."

It follows a CNN investigation that found weaponry and equipment provided by the US to Saudi Arabia and the UAE were being used by Iranian-linked militias and Al-Qaeda, the report said.

Recipients of US defence equipment must agree not to re-export or transfer that gear without prior authorisation of Washington.

The footage of showed mine-resistant US-made military vehicles no longer in coalition custody and said US weapons could be purchased on the market in Yemen.

The American administration also said it is taking the reports seriously.

"We take allegations of misuse of US-origin defence equipment very seriously, and initiate investigations promptly upon receiving credible evidence," Pentagon spokesman Johnny Michael said.

"We take allegations of misuse of US-origin defence equipment very seriously, and initiate investigations promptly upon receiving credible evidence," Pentagon spokesman Johnny Michael said.

Votel, who heads US Central Command, had also said that he was not consulted on President Donald Trump's announcement that American troops would be withdrawn from Syria and the continued threat posed by the Islamic State group.