UK Boosts Aid to Yemen with £140m Commitment Amid Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis, Says Deputy Foreign Secretary

The UK will allocate £140 million in aid to Yemen to assist the 'most desperate people in the world', according to the deputy foreign secretary

In an interview with Sky News, Andrew Mitchell stated that the government plans to boost its direct aid to the conflict-ridden nation by 60%.

Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 12:

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The Deputy Foreign Secretary announced that next year, the UK is set to allocate £140 million to assist those affected by severe starvation in Yemen, a nation experiencing one of the world's most severe humanitarian emergencies.

In an exclusive interview with Sky News, Andrew Mitchell highlighted the severe hardships faced by the people of Yemen, who he described as surviving "at the bare minimum" after almost ten years of ongoing civil conflict.

Mr. Mitchell assured that the UK will enhance its bilateral aid to Yemen by 60%, emphasizing that the funds will be allocated specifically to assist those in dire humanitarian need.

"He stated, 'Britain is performing admirably by assisting the world's most desperate individuals and offering them aid.'"

The entry of the deputy foreign secretary into the discussion follows extensive coverage by Sky News' special correspondent Alex Crawford from Yemen, highlighting the detrimental effects of the Gaza conflict on the citizens of Yemen.

Iran-supported Houthi rebels in Yemen have attacked vessels in the Red Sea area, alleging that these ships are associated with Israel or are aiding its military operations.

Since November, ongoing missile and drone strikes by the Houthis have compelled global shipping vessels to alter their routes, opting for the lengthier and more expensive path around the Cape of Good Hope. This change in shipping routes has led to increased prices of goods in Yemen, which is already among the world's most impoverished nations.

Further Details on Yemen

The Impact of the Gaza Conflict on Yemen’s Escalating Humanitarian Crisis

"United by Arab identity, Yemeni fishermen confront the risk of Houthi aggression – yet they solidly support the militants in Gaza"

Infants are suffering from hunger as Yemen verges on disintegration, while the Houthis capitalize on the Gaza conflict to gain 'hero' acclaim.

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Despite facing criticism from Western nations, the Houthis' actions have sparked rallies in Yemen, where people are showing their support for the Palestinians in Gaza.

Mr. Mitchell stated that the Houthis' activities are endangering the food supply in Yemen, as 70% of it enters through ports that accommodate international shipping.

"He explained that the Houthis frequently hinder the progress by disrupting international shipping lanes."

"This clearly illustrates the harmful impact the Houthis are inflicting not only on their own population but also on the global community."

Discover more: Infants face famine as Yemen verges on disintegration. Alex Crawford: An insider's perspective on Yemen – the overlooked conflict.

When questioned about the actions of the international community towards establishing peace in Yemen, Mr. Mitchell responded, "Britain takes the lead at the United Nations regarding Yemen, as we are the ones 'holding the pen', to use the common parlance."

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"Recently, efforts have been focused on ensuring the success of the negotiations facilitated by the UN special representative."

"The circumstances have significantly changed compared to a few years ago regarding the Saudis. Additionally, there's a peace process readily available for implementation.

"We call on all groups engaged in the conflict in Yemen to participate in the peace process, in order to resolve a dire situation that is primarily affecting millions of civilians in the country."

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