Barran Press
On January 8, 2025, British Ambassador to Yemen Abda Sharif revealed plans for an upcoming international conference in New York aimed at rallying political and economic support for Yemen. In an extensive interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, she emphasized the UK’s commitment to enhancing assistance for the Yemeni people and supporting the Yemeni government.
"The conference will take place early this year, focusing on securing political and programmatic support for the government and its institutions to help provide essential services," Sharif stated.
She acknowledged the current challenges, particularly the difficult economic situation, and stressed the UK's serious responsibility as a key player in the Yemen file at the United Nations Security Council.
Sharif expressed concern over the "volatile" situation in Yemen due to Houthi attacks on Israel and the subsequent Israeli response, warning that such "recklessness" from the Houthis threatens peace efforts.
The ambassador also noted ongoing and regular coordination with Saudi Arabia regarding the Yemen crisis, commending the Kingdom's efforts to assist the Yemeni population. She supported the UN's decision to suspend developmental aid in Houthi-controlled areas, cautioning that the detention of UN staff and embassy personnel undermines humanitarian work in those regions.
In response to a question about unifying the Yemeni currency, Sharif indicated that the UN envoy is leading significant discussions with Yemeni parties to achieve financial stability. She highlighted the Yemeni government's support in accessing funds held in the UK, which has helped secure foreign currency amidst the worsening economic crisis.
The ambassador reaffirmed the resilience of the Yemeni people and the government's commitment to achieving lasting peace in 2025, emphasizing that security and stability require a political settlement. She referenced the situation in Syria, urging the avoidance of repeating Assad's mistakes in Yemen.
Sharif mentioned efforts to establish a maritime security partnership and support for the Yemeni coast guard to combat smuggling, underlining the UK's strategy to rebuild and support these initiatives.
She noted that the UN roadmap, which established clear commitments for involved parties, has been threatened by Houthi attacks, warning that such actions could escalate regional tensions and undermine Yemen's stability, exacerbating humanitarian and economic suffering.
Reflecting on the long-standing and brotherly Saudi-British relations, Sharif praised the Kingdom’s support for Yemen and reiterated ongoing cooperation in humanitarian projects, including those in Yemen.
She condemned the Houthi detention of UN and embassy staff as "illegal and unjustifiable," stressing the necessity for humanitarian workers to operate safely. The ambassador warned that continued detentions would undermine UN efforts and supported the suspension of developmental aid in Houthi-controlled areas, highlighting the impact of arrests on donor funding and commitments to Yemen.
Sharif underscored London’s commitment to protecting international shipping and condemned Houthi maritime attacks, emphasizing the importance of freedom of navigation. She described recent airstrikes as defensive and precise, aimed at minimizing civilian risks, and reiterated that they do not justify ongoing assaults on civilian ships and oil tankers.
She concluded by reaffirming the UK's serious commitment to the Yemen issue and support for the UN envoy's efforts to achieve a political resolution for sustainable peace. Sharif highlighted that Yemen represents the UK's third-largest development aid program after Afghanistan and Ukraine, with support in 2024 amounting to approximately $200 million to feed 870,000 individuals, support 500 health centers, and treat 700,000 children for malnutrition.