At least 85&nbsp;people were killed and more than 100 injured in Yemen's capital Sana'a in a stampede that broke out during a charity distribution. Official statements by the Houthi-led administration say that a "random distribution" of sums of money was taking place in the capital's Bab al-Yemen area when the stampede broke out.<img alt="Yemen, West Asia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cfed8ece-c5fe-4ca3-8dc1-5e90ca1622c6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2829%29_12.jpg" />

Videos circulating on social media showed bodies lying on the ground inside a large complex. WION cannot independently verify the veracity of the videos.&nbsp;

The charity distribution reportedly involved distribution of Ramadan food and alms by local businessmen at a school.&nbsp;

The death toll was confirmed by two health officials, news agency AFP reported. The exact number of injured is pegged at 109 so far.

"Women and children were among the dead," a health official was quoted as saying by news agency AFP on the condition of anonymity.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/saudi-led-coalition-releases-over-100-additional-yemen-war-prisoners-583456">Saudi-led coalition releases over 100 additional Yemen war prisoners</a>

Security forces were deployed heavily around the area, as people scrambled to the site of stampede, hoping to discover their relatives.

The dead and injured have been moved to nearby hospitals and those responsible for the distribution were taken into custody, the interior ministry said in a statement cited by Saba news agency.

Authorities have called for an investigation.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Saudi holds talks with Yemen's Houthis | The West Asia Post

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/saudi-holds-talks-with-yemens-houthis-the-west-asia-post-582784/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Yemen continues to suffer from the aftershocks of a now nearly-ceased Civil war, that broke out in 2014, when Iran-backed Houthi rebels seized capital Sana'a. Following this Saudi Arabia-led coalition stormed into Yemen leading to the propping up of an internationally recognised government.

The fighting has nearly stopped since a six-month truce was brokered in April last year. The fighting has not resumed&nbsp;even after it expired in October.

More than two-thirds of the population lives below the poverty line, according to the UN, including government employees in Houthi-controlled areas who haven't been paid civil servant salaries in years.&nbsp;

Over 21.7 million people -- two-thirds of the country -- need humanitarian assistance this year, according to the UN.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

At least 85 people were killed and more than 100 injured in Yemen's capital Sana'a in a stampede that broke out during a charity distribution. Official statements by the Houthi-led administration say that a "random distribution" of sums of money was taking place in the capital's Bab al-Yemen area when the stampede broke out.

At least 85 people were killed and more than 100 injured in Yemen's capital Sana'a in a stampede that broke out during a charity distribution. Official statements by the Houthi-led administration say that a "random distribution" of sums of money was taking place in the capital's Bab al-Yemen area when the stampede broke out. Videos circulating on social media showed bodies lying on the ground inside a large complex. WION cannot independently verify the veracity of the videos. The charity distribution reportedly involved distribution of Ramadan food and alms by local businessmen at a school. The death toll was confirmed by two health officials, news agency AFP reported. The exact number of injured is pegged at 109 so far. "Women and children were among the dead," a health official was quoted as saying by news agency AFP on the condition of anonymity. ALSO READ | Saudi-led coalition releases over 100 additional Yemen war prisoners Security forces were deployed heavily around the area, as people scrambled to the site of stampede, hoping to discover their relatives. The dead and injured have been moved to nearby hospitals and those responsible for the distribution were taken into custody, the interior ministry said in a statement cited by Saba news agency. Authorities have called for an investigation. ALSO WATCH | Saudi holds talks with Yemen's Houthis | The West Asia Post × Yemen continues to suffer from the aftershocks of a now nearly-ceased Civil war, that broke out in 2014, when Iran-backed Houthi rebels seized capital Sana'a. Following this Saudi Arabia-led coalition stormed into Yemen leading to the propping up of an internationally recognised government. The fighting has nearly stopped since a six-month truce was brokered in April last year. The fighting has not resumed even after it expired in October. More than two-thirds of the population lives below the poverty line, according to the UN, including government employees in Houthi-controlled areas who haven't been paid civil servant salaries in years. Over 21.7 million people -- two-thirds of the country -- need humanitarian assistance this year, according to the UN. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Yemen: Stampede at Ramadan charity distribution in Sana'a leaves 85 dead, hundreds injured

A stampede broke out at an event to distribute financial aid in the Old City in the center of Yemeni capital, Sanaa. At least 85 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a stampede in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, Houthi officials said on Thursday.

Yemen: Stampede kills at least 85, injures dozens in Sanaa

A stampede broke out in the capital city of Yemen, Sanaa during a charity distribution. The incident took place inside a school, where aid was being distributed. About 85 people are marked dead and 300 injured in the stampede.

Yemen stampede kills 83, more than 300 injured

The Saudi-led military coalition, on Monday (April 17) released 104 more detainees&nbsp;who were captured during Yemen’s war. The unilateral decision follows a major organised prisoner swap which had taken place after negotiations between Yemen’s Houthi rebels and government officials and finished on Sunday.&nbsp;

The International Committee of the Red Cross said that it flew two flights carrying a total of 96 released detainees from Saudi Arabia's Abha International Airport to Yemen’s capital city of Sanaa. Additionally, a third flight is headed to the government-controlled Aden in the south carrying eight captives, said the ICRC.&nbsp;

The prisoner exchange which ended on Sunday came after a United Nations-brokered deal in line with which more than 700 detained Houthis and over 180 other prisoners, including Saudi and Sudanese troops fighting with the Saudi-led coalition were released. The three-day operation was overseen by the ICRC.&nbsp;

The total number of captives released stood at 973, since Friday. ICRC media adviser Jessica Moussan told AFP that the “unilateral” release of an additional 104 prisoners took place outside the deal. “We welcome this initiative and are pleased to see that humanitarian considerations are being taken for the sake of reuniting families,” said Moussan.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a statement from Brigadier General Turki al-Maliki who is also a spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition acknowledged the release of 104 Houthi detainees and said they “completed” the prisoner exchange.&nbsp;

He added that the “efforts to stabilize the cease-fire and create an atmosphere of dialogue between the Yemeni parties to reach a comprehensive and sustainable political solution that ends the Yemeni crisis," reported the Associated Press,&nbsp;citing the official Saudi Press Agency. 
 
The kingdom has also said that the prisoner releases come as the Houthis and Saudi Arabia have made progress in talks to settle the conflict.&nbsp;The Iran-backed Houthis seized Sanaa in 2014 which prompted a Saudi-led military intervention months later. This triggered a conflict and a major humanitarian crisis where hundreds of thousands of people lost their lives.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Houthis say both sides will continue their talks after Eid al-Fitr, a holiday later this week that marks the end of Ramadan. This comes as the talks for a more durable ceasefire, last week, ended without a truce but with an agreement to meet again.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Saudi-led military coalition, on Monday (April 17) released 104 more detainees who were captured during Yemen’s war. The unilateral decision follows a major organised prisoner swap which had taken place after negotiations between Yemen’s Houthi rebels and government officials and finished on Sunday.

The Saudi-led military coalition, on Monday (April 17) released 104 more detainees who were captured during Yemen’s war. The unilateral decision follows a major organised prisoner swap which had taken place after negotiations between Yemen’s Houthi rebels and government officials and finished on Sunday. The International Committee of the Red Cross said that it flew two flights carrying a total of 96 released detainees from Saudi Arabia's Abha International Airport to Yemen’s capital city of Sanaa. Additionally, a third flight is headed to the government-controlled Aden in the south carrying eight captives, said the ICRC. The prisoner exchange which ended on Sunday came after a United Nations-brokered deal in line with which more than 700 detained Houthis and over 180 other prisoners, including Saudi and Sudanese troops fighting with the Saudi-led coalition were released. The three-day operation was overseen by the ICRC. The total number of captives released stood at 973, since Friday. ICRC media adviser Jessica Moussan told AFP that the “unilateral” release of an additional 104 prisoners took place outside the deal. “We welcome this initiative and are pleased to see that humanitarian considerations are being taken for the sake of reuniting families,” said Moussan. Meanwhile, a statement from Brigadier General Turki al-Maliki who is also a spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition acknowledged the release of 104 Houthi detainees and said they “completed” the prisoner exchange. He added that the “efforts to stabilize the cease-fire and create an atmosphere of dialogue between the Yemeni parties to reach a comprehensive and sustainable political solution that ends the Yemeni crisis," reported the Associated Press, citing the official Saudi Press Agency. The kingdom has also said that the prisoner releases come as the Houthis and Saudi Arabia have made progress in talks to settle the conflict. The Iran-backed Houthis seized Sanaa in 2014 which prompted a Saudi-led military intervention months later. This triggered a conflict and a major humanitarian crisis where hundreds of thousands of people lost their lives. Meanwhile, Houthis say both sides will continue their talks after Eid al-Fitr, a holiday later this week that marks the end of Ramadan. This comes as the talks for a more durable ceasefire, last week, ended without a truce but with an agreement to meet again. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi-led coalition releases over 100 additional Yemen war prisoners

The bruising civil war in Yemen appears to have come to an end now with the second day of a prisoner swap between the Saudi coalition forces and Yemen's Houthi rebels. Scores of free prisoners were flown across the borders.

Saudi-Yemen prisoner swap day two: Peace in Yemen as prisoners of war return home

Big developments taking place in West Asia. Saudi Arabia will be holding the second round of peace talks with Yemen's Houthi rebels, igniting the hope of a possible end to the Yemeni civil war.

Saudi holds talks with Yemen's Houthis | The West Asia Post

Glorifying Saddam Hussein might be a crime in Iraq, but for Jordanians, he is a leader who is still remembered for standing up against the West and supporting the Arab cause.

Why does Yemen still rever Saddam? | The West Asia Post

A major exchange of prisoners from Yemen's brutal civil war got underway on Friday with the first plane departing rebel-held Sanaa for government-controlled Aden, the International Committee of the Red Cross said.

"The first flight from Sanaa has left," ICRC media adviser Jessica Moussan told AFP, signalling the start of a three-day operation that will see nearly 900 prisoners released.

More than 300 prisoners will fly between the two cities on Friday. Later, detainees will also be released in Marib and Mokha, and in Riyadh and Abha in neighbouring Saudi Arabia.

The exchange is further evidence of a decrease in tensions after truce talks were held in Sanaa this week between the Huthi rebels and a delegation from Saudi Arabia, the government's main military ally.

The Iran-backed Huthis seized control of Sanaa in 2014, ousting the internationally recognised government and triggering a Saudi-led military intervention the following March.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-saudi-arabia-pull-out-of-the-yemen-war-is-china-behind-the-big-decision-577116">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Saudi Arabia pull out of the Yemen War? Is China behind the big decision?</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-saudi-arabia-pull-out-of-the-yemen-war-is-china-behind-the-big-decision-577116/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Hundreds of thousands of people have been killed by direct and indirect causes in a war that has sparked one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, according to United Nations estimates.

Last month, Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed to re-establish official ties after a seven-year split, an announcement that has quickly redrawn the diplomatic map.

As part of the drawing down of tensions, nine Arab countries will meet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia later on Friday to discuss the 12-year suspension from the Arab League of Iran ally Syria over its bloody civil war.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A major exchange of prisoners from Yemen's brutal civil war got underway on Friday with the first plane departing rebel-held Sanaa for government-controlled Aden, the International Committee of the Red Cross said.

A major exchange of prisoners from Yemen's brutal civil war got underway on Friday with the first plane departing rebel-held Sanaa for government-controlled Aden, the International Committee of the Red Cross said. "The first flight from Sanaa has left," ICRC media adviser Jessica Moussan told AFP, signalling the start of a three-day operation that will see nearly 900 prisoners released. More than 300 prisoners will fly between the two cities on Friday. Later, detainees will also be released in Marib and Mokha, and in Riyadh and Abha in neighbouring Saudi Arabia. The exchange is further evidence of a decrease in tensions after truce talks were held in Sanaa this week between the Huthi rebels and a delegation from Saudi Arabia, the government's main military ally. The Iran-backed Huthis seized control of Sanaa in 2014, ousting the internationally recognised government and triggering a Saudi-led military intervention the following March. WATCH | Gravitas: Will Saudi Arabia pull out of the Yemen War? Is China behind the big decision? × Hundreds of thousands of people have been killed by direct and indirect causes in a war that has sparked one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, according to United Nations estimates. Last month, Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed to re-establish official ties after a seven-year split, an announcement that has quickly redrawn the diplomatic map. As part of the drawing down of tensions, nine Arab countries will meet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia later on Friday to discuss the 12-year suspension from the Arab League of Iran ally Syria over its bloody civil war. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Times of truce? Major prisoner swap underway in Yemen: ICRC

Yemen is hoping for a breakthrough as the region's neighbors, Oman and Saudi Arabia, begin peace talks. Additionally, two rebel groups supported by Iran have agreed to hold the negotiations in Sanaa for years.

Saudi and Omani delegations hold peace talks with Houthis

Reports: Saudi and Houthis have agreed to a six-month truce

Saudi and Omani delegations arrived in Yemen's capital Sanaa, Houthi-run media said on Sunday, to negotiate a permanent ceasefire deal with Houthi officials and end Riyadh's military involvement in the country's long-running war.

The visit indicates progress in the Oman-mediated consultations between Riyadh and Sanaa, which run in parallel with UN&nbsp;peace efforts. Peace efforts have also gained momentum after arch-rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed to re-establish ties in a deal brokered by China.

The envoys, who landed late on Saturday, will meet with the head of Houthi Supreme Political Council, Mahdi al-Mashat, to hold talks on ending hostilities and lifting a Saudi-led "blockade" on Yemeni ports, Houthi news agency SABA reported.

Sources have told Reuters that the Saudi-Houthi talks are focused on a full reopening of Houthi-controlled ports and Sanaa airport, payment of wages for public servants, rebuilding efforts and a timeline for foreign forces to exit the country.

Yemen's war is seen as one of several proxy battles between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, ousted a Saudi-backed government from Sanaa in late 2014, and have de facto control of north Yemen, saying they are rising up against a corrupt system and foreign aggression.

They have been fighting against a Saudi-led military alliance since 2015 in a conflict that has killed tens of thousands and left 80 per cent&nbsp;of Yemen's population dependent on humanitarian aid.

A Houthi official said on Saturday the group had received 13 detainees released by Saudi Arabia in exchange for a Saudi detainee freed earlier, ahead of a wider prisoner exchange agreed upon by the warring sides.

At talks in Switzerland last month attended by the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Yemeni government and the Houthis agreed to free 887 detainees. The 13 prisoners are part of that agreement, Houthi official Abdul Qader al-Mortada said.

The Saudi government media office did not respond to a Reuters request for comment on the prisoner exchange and the delegation visiting Sanaa.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Saudi and Omani delegations arrived in Yemen's capital Sanaa, Houthi-run media said on Sunday, to negotiate a permanent ceasefire deal with Houthi officials and end Riyadh's military involvement in the country's long-running war.

Saudi and Omani delegations arrived in Yemen's capital Sanaa, Houthi-run media said on Sunday, to negotiate a permanent ceasefire deal with Houthi officials and end Riyadh's military involvement in the country's long-running war. The visit indicates progress in the Oman-mediated consultations between Riyadh and Sanaa, which run in parallel with UN peace efforts. Peace efforts have also gained momentum after arch-rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed to re-establish ties in a deal brokered by China. The envoys, who landed late on Saturday, will meet with the head of Houthi Supreme Political Council, Mahdi al-Mashat, to hold talks on ending hostilities and lifting a Saudi-led "blockade" on Yemeni ports, Houthi news agency SABA reported. Sources have told Reuters that the Saudi-Houthi talks are focused on a full reopening of Houthi-controlled ports and Sanaa airport, payment of wages for public servants, rebuilding efforts and a timeline for foreign forces to exit the country. Yemen's war is seen as one of several proxy battles between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, ousted a Saudi-backed government from Sanaa in late 2014, and have de facto control of north Yemen, saying they are rising up against a corrupt system and foreign aggression. They have been fighting against a Saudi-led military alliance since 2015 in a conflict that has killed tens of thousands and left 80 per cent of Yemen's population dependent on humanitarian aid. A Houthi official said on Saturday the group had received 13 detainees released by Saudi Arabia in exchange for a Saudi detainee freed earlier, ahead of a wider prisoner exchange agreed upon by the warring sides. At talks in Switzerland last month attended by the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Yemeni government and the Houthis agreed to free 887 detainees. The 13 prisoners are part of that agreement, Houthi official Abdul Qader al-Mortada said. The Saudi government media office did not respond to a Reuters request for comment on the prisoner exchange and the delegation visiting Sanaa. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi, Omani envoys arrive in Sanaa for peace talks with Houthi rebels

A Yemini community is trying to preserve a decades-old tradition of cheese-making. While it is a way to stay afloat in the war-torn economy, the cultural importance supersedes everything else.

Preserving Yemen's age-old cheesy affair! | The West Asia Post

The Foreign Ministers of Iran & Saudi met in Beijing, paving the way for normalised ties under a surprise china-brokered deal. last month, Tehran & Riyadh agreed to re-establish relations after years of hostility. The absence of ties between the two nations threatened stability & security in the region & helped fuel conflicts in West Asia, from Yemen to Syria. Saudi Arabia cut ties with Iran in 2016. Back then, its embassy in Tehran was stormed during a dispute over Riyadh's execution of a Shi'ite Muslim cleric.

In China, Saudi & Iran foreign ministers discuss reopening embassies and consulates | Details

Reports say Saudi Arabia could be thinking of pulling out of the Yemen war, this comes weeks after Riyadh and Tehran struck a deal to resume diplomatic relations. Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Will Saudi Arabia pull out of the Yemen War? Is China behind the big decision?

On Sunday, a rebel group held a large gathering in Yemen. To commemorate the eighth anniversary of the Saudi-led military intervention in Yemen, a march was held in the country's capital Sanaa.

Houthis mark eighth year of Saudi-led military intervention in Yemen

The decision by Iran and Saudi Arabia to re-establish diplomatic ties after years of tensions is being welcomed by their neighbours that were caught in conflict fueled by the two regional superpowers. Watch the video to know more.

Neighbours react to Iran-Saudi reconciliation; new deal to end violence in Yemen

Terrorist group al Qaeda on Sunday (March 5) confirmed that a senior member of the jihadist group in Yemen has been killed in suspected air strikes, said SITE Intelligence Group.

AFP reported citing security and local government sources that Hamad bin Hamoud al-Tamimi had been killed. The sources identified him as a top leader of al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). The United States regards AQAP among al Qaeda's more dangerous branches.

Tamimi, a Saudi also known as Abdel Aziz al-Adnani, died in a drone strike on February 26 that targeted his residence in war-torn Yemen's northern Marib province, according to the statement reported by SITE, which monitors jihadist websites.

The statement identified Tamimi as a "media official" who "previously managed external operations in the group, including those striking American interests".

AQAP said Tamimi spent nearly four years in prison in Saudi Arabia before traveling to Yemen in 2013, where he expressed a desire to attack "vital" American interests and carry out a suicide attack himself.

The sources, requesting anonymity, told AFP Tamimi had headed AQAP's leadership council and acted as the militant group's "judge".

SITE said the Al-Qaeda statement had noted another media official, Abu Nasser al-Hadhrami, was "a victim of the attack".

AQAP and rival militants loyal to the Islamic State group have thrived in the chaos of Yemen's eight-year civil war, which pits the Saudi-backed government against Iran-allied Huthi rebels.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Terrorist group al Qaeda on Sunday (March 5) confirmed that a senior member of the jihadist group in Yemen has been killed in suspected air strikes, said SITE Intelligence Group.

Terrorist group al Qaeda on Sunday (March 5) confirmed that a senior member of the jihadist group in Yemen has been killed in suspected air strikes, said SITE Intelligence Group. AFP reported citing security and local government sources that Hamad bin Hamoud al-Tamimi had been killed. The sources identified him as a top leader of al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). The United States regards AQAP among al Qaeda's more dangerous branches. Tamimi, a Saudi also known as Abdel Aziz al-Adnani, died in a drone strike on February 26 that targeted his residence in war-torn Yemen's northern Marib province, according to the statement reported by SITE, which monitors jihadist websites. The statement identified Tamimi as a "media official" who "previously managed external operations in the group, including those striking American interests". AQAP said Tamimi spent nearly four years in prison in Saudi Arabia before traveling to Yemen in 2013, where he expressed a desire to attack "vital" American interests and carry out a suicide attack himself. The sources, requesting anonymity, told AFP Tamimi had headed AQAP's leadership council and acted as the militant group's "judge". SITE said the Al-Qaeda statement had noted another media official, Abu Nasser al-Hadhrami, was "a victim of the attack". AQAP and rival militants loyal to the Islamic State group have thrived in the chaos of Yemen's eight-year civil war, which pits the Saudi-backed government against Iran-allied Huthi rebels. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Al Qaeda says top leader killed in strike in Yemen

Four soldiers in Yemen were killed in clashes with Huthi rebels in the country's north on Saturday (February 25) evening. A military official, who did not wish to be identified, said the soldiers were killed while confronting rebels in the south of Harib district in Marib province, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday. Several other soldiers were injured in the fighting that ended hours after the initial attack on government positions in Harib, the official added.&nbsp;

It is not yet known how many Huthi rebels were killed. Flare-ups between the Yemeni forces and Huthi rebels are relatively common in the government's last northern stronghold.

A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in 2015 to back the government after Huthis seized control of the capital city of Sanaa and large swathes of Yemen, AFP reported.

The war has killed hundreds of thousands of people both directly and indirectly and triggered what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with millions of people displaced.

The clashes on Saturday come almost a month after Huthi rebels attacked Yemeni government military sites in the Lahj province on January 27. Eight people, including five rebels and three soldiers, were reported dead.&nbsp;

A local military official told the Xinhua news agency the rebels carried out the attack and attempted to advance militarily on the ground to capture key sites controlled by the government forces in the northern part of the province.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Four soldiers in Yemen were killed in clashes with Huthi rebels in the country's north on Saturday (February 25) evening. A military official, who did not wish to be identified, said the soldiers were killed while confronting rebels in the south of Harib district in Marib province, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday.

Four soldiers in Yemen were killed in clashes with Huthi rebels in the country's north on Saturday (February 25) evening. A military official, who did not wish to be identified, said the soldiers were killed while confronting rebels in the south of Harib district in Marib province, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday. Several other soldiers were injured in the fighting that ended hours after the initial attack on government positions in Harib, the official added. It is not yet known how many Huthi rebels were killed. Flare-ups between the Yemeni forces and Huthi rebels are relatively common in the government's last northern stronghold. A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in 2015 to back the government after Huthis seized control of the capital city of Sanaa and large swathes of Yemen, AFP reported. The war has killed hundreds of thousands of people both directly and indirectly and triggered what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with millions of people displaced. The clashes on Saturday come almost a month after Huthi rebels attacked Yemeni government military sites in the Lahj province on January 27. Eight people, including five rebels and three soldiers, were reported dead. A local military official told the Xinhua news agency the rebels carried out the attack and attempted to advance militarily on the ground to capture key sites controlled by the government forces in the northern part of the province. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Yemen: Four soldiers killed, several others injured in clashes with Huthi rebels

The United States has agreed to return 77 antiquities, including relief carved stone heads, Quran manuscript pages, a bronze inscribed bowl, and a Funerary Stele, to Yemen. The pieces date back to the 1st century BCE and belong to the Minaean tribal cultures in northwest Yemen's highlands. This is a welcome development for Yemen, which has been ravaged by an eight-year civil war.

Watch: The West Asia Post | End of the Truce in Yemen

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-west-asia-post-end-of-the-truce-in-yemen-524565/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The return of these antiquities is a result of a campaign launched by New York state's justice department to restore looted antiquities to their countries of origin. The campaign has been ongoing for several years and has resulted in the return of at least 700 pieces to 14 countries, including Cambodia, Egypt, Greece, India, Iraq, Italy, and Pakistan, between 2020 and 2021.

The 64 carved stone heads were confiscated in the United States as part of a 2012 plea bargain from an antiquities smuggler named Mousa Khouli, also known as "Morris" Khouli. The antiquities were imported into the US from Dubai using fake documentation.

The announcement of the return of the antiquities was made jointly by the prosecutor's office, the Department of Homeland Security, the State Department, and the Smithsonian Institution, which includes nearly 20 museums in the United States. The Yemeni government and the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art have signed an agreement to preserve the objects for two years, with the option of renewing it at Yemen's request.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/as-war-destroys-yemens-present-museums-struggle-to-preserve-its-past-390365">As war destroys Yemen's present, museums struggle to preserve its past</a>

Yemen's ambassador to the United States, Mohammed Al-Hadhrami, expressed his gratitude to New York for the return of the antiquities. He also thanked the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art for agreeing to temporarily hold these antiquities until they are fully repatriated back to Yemen. The return of these antiquities is a significant step towards recognising the cultural heritage of Yemen and preserving it for future generations.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The United States has agreed to return 77 antiquities, including relief carved stone heads, Quran manuscript pages, a bronze inscribed bowl, and a Funerary Stele, to Yemen.

The United States has agreed to return 77 antiquities, including relief carved stone heads, Quran manuscript pages, a bronze inscribed bowl, and a Funerary Stele, to Yemen. The pieces date back to the 1st century BCE and belong to the Minaean tribal cultures in northwest Yemen's highlands. This is a welcome development for Yemen, which has been ravaged by an eight-year civil war. Watch: The West Asia Post | End of the Truce in Yemen × The return of these antiquities is a result of a campaign launched by New York state's justice department to restore looted antiquities to their countries of origin. The campaign has been ongoing for several years and has resulted in the return of at least 700 pieces to 14 countries, including Cambodia, Egypt, Greece, India, Iraq, Italy, and Pakistan, between 2020 and 2021. The 64 carved stone heads were confiscated in the United States as part of a 2012 plea bargain from an antiquities smuggler named Mousa Khouli, also known as "Morris" Khouli. The antiquities were imported into the US from Dubai using fake documentation. The announcement of the return of the antiquities was made jointly by the prosecutor's office, the Department of Homeland Security, the State Department, and the Smithsonian Institution, which includes nearly 20 museums in the United States. The Yemeni government and the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art have signed an agreement to preserve the objects for two years, with the option of renewing it at Yemen's request. Also Read | As war destroys Yemen's present, museums struggle to preserve its past Yemen's ambassador to the United States, Mohammed Al-Hadhrami, expressed his gratitude to New York for the return of the antiquities. He also thanked the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art for agreeing to temporarily hold these antiquities until they are fully repatriated back to Yemen. The return of these antiquities is a significant step towards recognising the cultural heritage of Yemen and preserving it for future generations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US agrees to return 77 stolen antiquities to civil war-torn Yemen

French naval forces have seized thousands of assault rifles, machine guns, and anti-tank missiles in the gulf of Oman and according to officials, the assignment was coming from Iran heading to Yemen's Houthi rebels.

France intercept Iranian weapons

The United Nations children's agency in a statement on Saturday said that more than 11,000 children have been killed or maimed in the Yemen civil war, adding that the "true toll of this conflict is likely to be higher".

As per an AFP report quoting UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell, "Thousands of children have lost their lives, hundreds of thousands more remain at risk of death from preventable disease or starvation."

Watch |&nbsp;The West Asia Post: Is the Yemen war coming to an end?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-west-asia-post-is-the-yemen-war-coming-to-an-end-482953/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Yemen war which broke out in 2014, saw escalation as Houthi-backed rebels seized the capital Sanaa, which in turn led Saudi-led forces to intervene and put in place a government the next year.

As per UNICEF, about 2.2 million children, a quarter of which are less than five years old in Yemen are acutely malnourished. Most of them are also at risk from Cholera, measles and other diseases that could be easily prevented through vaccinations.

The report added that hundreds of thousands of children have lost their lives since the start of this war, either directly due to the clashes or indirectly due to the unavailability of safe drinking water, food, and disease outbreaks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemen-ceasefire-ends-without-extension-as-un-envoy-urges-calm-522010">Yemen ceasefire ends without extension as UN envoy urges calm</a>

UNICEF's latest numbers put the number of child deaths between March 2015 and September 2022 at 3,774. Additionally, the organisation claims that some 3,904 boys and 90 girls have been recruited into the fighting over the last eight years.

"If the children of Yemen are to have any chance of a decent future... all those with influence must ensure they are protected and supported," said Russell as the agency appealed for a $484.4 million funding to tackle the humanitarian crisis plaguing the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The United Nations children's agency in a statement on Saturday said that more than 11,000 children have been killed or maimed in the Yemen civil war, adding that the "true toll of this conflict is likely to be higher".

The United Nations children's agency in a statement on Saturday said that more than 11,000 children have been killed or maimed in the Yemen civil war, adding that the "true toll of this conflict is likely to be higher". As per an AFP report quoting UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell, "Thousands of children have lost their lives, hundreds of thousands more remain at risk of death from preventable disease or starvation." Watch | The West Asia Post: Is the Yemen war coming to an end? The Yemen war which broke out in 2014, saw escalation as Houthi-backed rebels seized the capital Sanaa, which in turn led Saudi-led forces to intervene and put in place a government the next year. As per UNICEF, about 2.2 million children, a quarter of which are less than five years old in Yemen are acutely malnourished. Most of them are also at risk from Cholera, measles and other diseases that could be easily prevented through vaccinations. The report added that hundreds of thousands of children have lost their lives since the start of this war, either directly due to the clashes or indirectly due to the unavailability of safe drinking water, food, and disease outbreaks. Also read | Yemen ceasefire ends without extension as UN envoy urges calm UNICEF's latest numbers put the number of child deaths between March 2015 and September 2022 at 3,774. Additionally, the organisation claims that some 3,904 boys and 90 girls have been recruited into the fighting over the last eight years. "If the children of Yemen are to have any chance of a decent future... all those with influence must ensure they are protected and supported," said Russell as the agency appealed for a $484.4 million funding to tackle the humanitarian crisis plaguing the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

11,000 children killed or maimed, another 2.2 million malnourished due to war in Yemen: UNICEF

The six-month truce between the Yemen government forces and Houthi rebels is over. What happened? Will The fighting resume? Ghadi Francis tells you more on #TheWestAsiaPost

The West Asia Post | End of the Truce in Yemen

A six-month truce in Yemen's war has expired without being extended, the United Nations' special envoy said on Sunday, urging calm and adding that negotiations are continuing.

Hans Grundberg said efforts to extend and expand the ceasefire for a further six months had not been successful.

"The <a href="Female students protest against the deadly Kabul attack as toll jumps to 43">UN</a> special envoy regrets that an agreement has not been reached today, as an extended and expanded truce would provide additional critical benefits to the population," a statement said.

"I urge (the warring parties) to fulfil their obligation to the Yemeni people to pursue every avenue for peace," the Swedish diplomat was quoted as saying.

The ceasefire, enacted for two months in April and renewed twice, has brought a sharp drop in fighting in the war between Iran-backed Huthi rebels and a Saudi-led pro-government coalition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-putin-set-to-officially-annex-occupied-ukrainian-regions-at-official-event-today-521193">As it happened: Germany's Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht visits Ukraine</a>

The war, which has been raging since 2014, has killed hundreds of thousands directly or indirectly and has created the world's worst humanitarian crisis, according to the UN.

Grundberg's proposal included paying civil servants' salaries, opening routes into the rebel-blockaded city of Taez, expanding commercial flights from the capital Sanaa and allowing more fuel ships into the Huthi-controlled port of Hodeida.

It also contained commitments to release detainees, resume an "inclusive" political process and tackle economic issues including public services.

Some 23.4 million Yemenis rely on humanitarian aid.

"I am grateful for the constructive engagement at the leadership level from both sides over the past weeks. And I appreciate the position of the government of Yemen on engaging positively with my proposal," Grundberg said.

"I will continue to work with both sides to try and find solutions."

'Dead end'

Grundberg has shuttled between Huthi-controlled Sanaa and Oman, which has acted as a mediator, in a bid to secure an extension.

On Sunday, he met the head of Yemen's presidential council, Rashad al-Alimi, in Riyadh, the Yemeni news agency SabaNet reported.

Rebel leader Mehdi Mashat told a political meeting in Sanaa that the UN proposals did "not meet the aspirations of the Yemeni people", the rebels' Al-Massira TV reported.

Sporadic clashes were reported on Sunday in southwest Yemen, as coalition military sources told AFP the Huthis had sent reinforcements to the region.

The Huthis said in a statement on Saturday that the ceasefire was at "a dead end".

"Over the past six months, we haven't seen any serious willingness to address humanitarian issues as a top priority," the statement said, accusing the coalition of failing to agree measures to "alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people".

The lull has led to a 60 percent reduction in casualties while fuel imports into the Huthi-held port of Hodeida have quadrupled, humanitarian groups said on Thursday.

Sanaa residents say their daily lives have dramatically improved. Prices have come down as more essential goods entered the city even though key roads remain shut.

While the truce has largely held, the Huthis and the coalition blame each other for reported violations.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

A six-month truce in Yemen's war has expired without being extended, the United Nations' special envoy said on Sunday, urging calm and adding that negotiations are continuing.

A six-month truce in Yemen's war has expired without being extended, the United Nations' special envoy said on Sunday, urging calm and adding that negotiations are continuing. Hans Grundberg said efforts to extend and expand the ceasefire for a further six months had not been successful. "The UN special envoy regrets that an agreement has not been reached today, as an extended and expanded truce would provide additional critical benefits to the population," a statement said. "I urge (the warring parties) to fulfil their obligation to the Yemeni people to pursue every avenue for peace," the Swedish diplomat was quoted as saying. The ceasefire, enacted for two months in April and renewed twice, has brought a sharp drop in fighting in the war between Iran-backed Huthi rebels and a Saudi-led pro-government coalition. Also read | As it happened: Germany's Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht visits Ukraine The war, which has been raging since 2014, has killed hundreds of thousands directly or indirectly and has created the world's worst humanitarian crisis, according to the UN. Grundberg's proposal included paying civil servants' salaries, opening routes into the rebel-blockaded city of Taez, expanding commercial flights from the capital Sanaa and allowing more fuel ships into the Huthi-controlled port of Hodeida. It also contained commitments to release detainees, resume an "inclusive" political process and tackle economic issues including public services. Some 23.4 million Yemenis rely on humanitarian aid. "I am grateful for the constructive engagement at the leadership level from both sides over the past weeks. And I appreciate the position of the government of Yemen on engaging positively with my proposal," Grundberg said. "I will continue to work with both sides to try and find solutions." 'Dead end' Grundberg has shuttled between Huthi-controlled Sanaa and Oman, which has acted as a mediator, in a bid to secure an extension. On Sunday, he met the head of Yemen's presidential council, Rashad al-Alimi, in Riyadh, the Yemeni news agency SabaNet reported. Rebel leader Mehdi Mashat told a political meeting in Sanaa that the UN proposals did "not meet the aspirations of the Yemeni people", the rebels' Al-Massira TV reported. Sporadic clashes were reported on Sunday in southwest Yemen, as coalition military sources told AFP the Huthis had sent reinforcements to the region. The Huthis said in a statement on Saturday that the ceasefire was at "a dead end". "Over the past six months, we haven't seen any serious willingness to address humanitarian issues as a top priority," the statement said, accusing the coalition of failing to agree measures to "alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people". The lull has led to a 60 percent reduction in casualties while fuel imports into the Huthi-held port of Hodeida have quadrupled, humanitarian groups said on Thursday. Sanaa residents say their daily lives have dramatically improved. Prices have come down as more essential goods entered the city even though key roads remain shut. While the truce has largely held, the Huthis and the coalition blame each other for reported violations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Yemen ceasefire ends without extension as UN envoy urges calm

A truce between Yemen’s warring rivals has been extended for additional two months, shortly before it was set to expire, according to the UN envoy on Thursday.

Yemen truce extended for 2 months: UN

With Yemen truce renewed, what are the prospects of peace?

How did Arab Spring pan out for the affected countries?

From Military personnel guiding local residents during Wanan Air Raid Drill in Taiwan to Yemeni women looking at paintings at an art exhibition, here are some impactful images from around the world on 25 July 2022.

World in Pictures: Military guide Taiwan residents during drill; Yemeni women look at paintings

A Congressional watchdog accused the US government of not investigating their role in Yemeni war crimes. Were US weapons used to target civilians in the war? What happened to Joe Biden's promise of ending military assistance? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Watchdog pulls up Biden administration over Yemen role

After US President Trump accused Iran of "blood lust" and threatened further sanctions, Iranian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-china-of-currency-manipulation-theft-of-intellectual-property-in-un-speech-251807">President Hassan Rouhani </a>while addressing the UN General Assembly ruled out talks with the US unless the sanctions were&nbsp;lifted.

"I would like to announce that our response to any negotiation under sanctions is negative," Rouhani said during his speech at the UN General Assembly. "We cannot believe the invitation to negotiations by people who claim to have applied the harshest sanctions in history against the dignity and prosperity of our nation," the Iran president added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rouhani-says-iran-resists-sanctions-drives-us-desperate-251461">Trump sought to increase</a> pressure on Iran during his speech at the UNGA asserting that the Rouhani government should halt &nbsp;"fanatical" weapons drive and "aggression" in the Middle East.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/president-of-iran-hassan-rouhani-speaks-at-the-unga-252057/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Iran president while addressing world leaders at the UNGA, said: "How can someone believe them when the silent killing of a great nation, and pressure on the lives of 83 million Iranians, especially women and children, are welcomed by American government officials?"

"The Iranian nation will never, ever forget and forgive these crimes and these criminals," Rouhani added.

The Iran president also demanded that Saudi Arabia "terminate aggression in Yemen", saying that "The security of Saudi Arabia will be guaranteed with the termination of aggression in Yemen, rather than by inviting foreigners."

Rouhani tried to rally the countries in the Middle East to form a "Coalition for Hope" stating that "the security of the region shall be provided when American troops pull out."

"In the event of an incident, you and we shall not remain alone. We are neighbours with each other and not with the United States," he said.

After US President Trump accused Iran of "blood lust" and threatened further sanctions, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani while addressing the UN General Assembly ruled out talks with the US unless the sanctions were lifted.

After US President Trump accused Iran of "blood lust" and threatened further sanctions, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani while addressing the UN General Assembly ruled out talks with the US unless the sanctions were lifted. "I would like to announce that our response to any negotiation under sanctions is negative," Rouhani said during his speech at the UN General Assembly. "We cannot believe the invitation to negotiations by people who claim to have applied the harshest sanctions in history against the dignity and prosperity of our nation," the Iran president added. Trump sought to increase pressure on Iran during his speech at the UNGA asserting that the Rouhani government should halt "fanatical" weapons drive and "aggression" in the Middle East. Watch Video: The Iran president while addressing world leaders at the UNGA, said: "How can someone believe them when the silent killing of a great nation, and pressure on the lives of 83 million Iranians, especially women and children, are welcomed by American government officials?" "The Iranian nation will never, ever forget and forgive these crimes and these criminals," Rouhani added. The Iran president also demanded that Saudi Arabia "terminate aggression in Yemen", saying that "The security of Saudi Arabia will be guaranteed with the termination of aggression in Yemen, rather than by inviting foreigners." Rouhani tried to rally the countries in the Middle East to form a "Coalition for Hope" stating that "the security of the region shall be provided when American troops pull out." "In the event of an incident, you and we shall not remain alone. We are neighbours with each other and not with the United States," he said.

Iran President Rouhani rules out negotiations with US at UNGA

In order to prevent oil spill disaster in the Red Sea, the United Nations has launched a crowd-funding campaign for an operation intended to prevent an ageing Yemeni oil tanker from unleashing a potential catastrophe.

UN's humanitarian coordinator for Yemen David Gressly told an online press briefing "We hope to raise $5 million by the end of June."

He took to Twitter and wrote, "Today I launched a @UN crowdfunding campaign because we urgently need funds to start the emergency operation before it is too late."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today I launched a <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> crowdfunding campaign because we urgently need funds to start the emergency operation before it is too late. Learn more: <a href="https://t.co/H6q5MJWBDg">https://t.co/H6q5MJWBDg</a> <a href="https://t.co/moFtjedoKn">pic.twitter.com/moFtjedoKn</a>
— David Gressly (@DavidGressly) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidGressly/status/1536366382623096834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Yemeni oil tanker, which is decaying and is 45-year-old, was used as a floating storage platform and has not been serviced since the country was plunged into civil war more than seven years ago.&nbsp;

Last month, the United Nations had warned that the FSO Safer, abandoned off the rebel-held Yemeni port of Hodeida, is in "imminent" danger of breaking up.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/peru-demands-compensation-for-oil-spill-damage-aerial-images-show-extent-of-devastation-446126">Also see |&nbsp;Peru demands compensation for oil spill damage, aerial images show extent of devastation</a>

According to a website for the crowd-funding campaign, which has started accepting donations, an operation to transfer its 1.1 million barrels of oil to a different vessel could begin next month.

Neighbouring Saudi Arabia said it would contribute $10 million following a UN pledging conference last month for the oil-transfer operation fell far short of its $80 million target.

After Houthi rebels seized the capital Sanaa the previous year, a Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015.

According to the UN, the Safer contains four times the amount of oil that was spilled by the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster, one of the world's worst ecological catastrophes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1&lt;/div">&amp;times;</iframe></div>

&nbsp;
</div>

In order to prevent oil spill disaster in the Red Sea, the United Nations has launched a crowd-funding campaign for an operation intended to prevent an ageing Yemeni oil tanker from unleashing a potential catastrophe.

In order to prevent oil spill disaster in the Red Sea, the United Nations has launched a crowd-funding campaign for an operation intended to prevent an ageing Yemeni oil tanker from unleashing a potential catastrophe. UN's humanitarian coordinator for Yemen David Gressly told an online press briefing "We hope to raise $5 million by the end of June." He took to Twitter and wrote, "Today I launched a @UN crowdfunding campaign because we urgently need funds to start the emergency operation before it is too late." Today I launched a @UN crowdfunding campaign because we urgently need funds to start the emergency operation before it is too late. Learn more: https://t.co/H6q5MJWBDg pic.twitter.com/moFtjedoKn — David Gressly (@DavidGressly) June 13, 2022 × The Yemeni oil tanker, which is decaying and is 45-year-old, was used as a floating storage platform and has not been serviced since the country was plunged into civil war more than seven years ago. Last month, the United Nations had warned that the FSO Safer, abandoned off the rebel-held Yemeni port of Hodeida, is in "imminent" danger of breaking up. Also see | Peru demands compensation for oil spill damage, aerial images show extent of devastation According to a website for the crowd-funding campaign, which has started accepting donations, an operation to transfer its 1.1 million barrels of oil to a different vessel could begin next month. Neighbouring Saudi Arabia said it would contribute $10 million following a UN pledging conference last month for the oil-transfer operation fell far short of its $80 million target. After Houthi rebels seized the capital Sanaa the previous year, a Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015. According to the UN, the Safer contains four times the amount of oil that was spilled by the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster, one of the world's worst ecological catastrophes. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

United Nations launches crowd-funding campaign to prevent oil spill disaster

Saudi Arabia on Sunday pledged $10 million to help prevent an ageing Yemeni oil tanker from unleashing a potentially catastrophic spill in the Red Sea bordering its waters.

The decaying 45-year-old oil tanker known as the FSO Safer, long used as a floating storage platform and now abandoned off the rebel-held Yemeni port of Hodeida, has not been serviced since Yemen was plunged into civil war.

A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015 after Huthi rebels seized the capital Sanaa the previous year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-hikes-july-crude-prices-surprisingly-high-for-asia-buyers-485530">Saudi Arabia hikes July crude prices surprisingly high for Asia buyers</a>

The tanker, which lies some 150 kilometres (100 miles) south of the border with Saudi Arabia, is in "imminent" danger of breaking up, the United Nations warned last month.

The Safer contains four times the amount of oil that was spilled by the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster, one of the world's worst ecological catastrophes, according to the UN.

Last week environmental campaign group Greenpeace urged the Arab League to drum up funds for an operation that would transfer its 1.1 million barrels of oil to a different vessel.

A UN pledging conference last month fell far short of its $80 million target, bringing in just $33 million.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Asia to pay more for oil from Saudi Arabia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-asia-to-pay-more-for-oil-from-saudi-arabia-485782/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Environmentalists warn the cost of the operation is a pittance compared to the estimated $20 billion it would cost to clean up a spill.

The UN has said an oil spill could destroy ecosystems, shut down the fishing industry and close the lifeline Hodeida port for six months.

It has said the operation needs to be completed by the end of September to avoid "turbulent winds" that pick up later in the year.&nbsp;

Riyadh will donate $10 million to the effort through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, the official Saudi Press Agency reported Sunday.&nbsp;

"The Kingdom calls on the United Nations to quickly take the necessary measures to ensure the prevention of oil leakage&nbsp;and also calls on the international community to contribute urgently to support this initiative and prevent a serious environmental disaster," the agency said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-sides-agree-to-extend-truce-for-two-months-says-united-nations-484465">Yemen’s warring sides agree to extend truce for two months, says United Nations</a>

Saudi Arabia's current defence spending is $36.8 billion per year, according to the Military Balance+ database prepared by the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

The war in Yemen has killed hundreds of thousands of people and left millions on the brink of famine.&nbsp;

But fighting has reduced since April when a truce went into effect, with the truce currently due to last until August.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Saudi Arabia on Sunday pledged $10 million to help prevent an ageing Yemeni oil tanker from unleashing a potentially catastrophic spill in the Red Sea bordering its waters.

Saudi Arabia on Sunday pledged $10 million to help prevent an ageing Yemeni oil tanker from unleashing a potentially catastrophic spill in the Red Sea bordering its waters. The decaying 45-year-old oil tanker known as the FSO Safer, long used as a floating storage platform and now abandoned off the rebel-held Yemeni port of Hodeida, has not been serviced since Yemen was plunged into civil war. A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015 after Huthi rebels seized the capital Sanaa the previous year. Also read | Saudi Arabia hikes July crude prices surprisingly high for Asia buyers The tanker, which lies some 150 kilometres (100 miles) south of the border with Saudi Arabia, is in "imminent" danger of breaking up, the United Nations warned last month. The Safer contains four times the amount of oil that was spilled by the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster, one of the world's worst ecological catastrophes, according to the UN. Last week environmental campaign group Greenpeace urged the Arab League to drum up funds for an operation that would transfer its 1.1 million barrels of oil to a different vessel. A UN pledging conference last month fell far short of its $80 million target, bringing in just $33 million. Watch | Gravitas: Asia to pay more for oil from Saudi Arabia Environmentalists warn the cost of the operation is a pittance compared to the estimated $20 billion it would cost to clean up a spill. The UN has said an oil spill could destroy ecosystems, shut down the fishing industry and close the lifeline Hodeida port for six months. It has said the operation needs to be completed by the end of September to avoid "turbulent winds" that pick up later in the year. Riyadh will donate $10 million to the effort through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, the official Saudi Press Agency reported Sunday. "The Kingdom calls on the United Nations to quickly take the necessary measures to ensure the prevention of oil leakage and also calls on the international community to contribute urgently to support this initiative and prevent a serious environmental disaster," the agency said. Also read | Yemen’s warring sides agree to extend truce for two months, says United Nations Saudi Arabia's current defence spending is $36.8 billion per year, according to the Military Balance+ database prepared by the International Institute for Strategic Studies. The war in Yemen has killed hundreds of thousands of people and left millions on the brink of famine. But fighting has reduced since April when a truce went into effect, with the truce currently due to last until August. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi offers $10 million to prevent Red Sea oil spill disaster off Yemen

yemen

Yemen, News on Yemen, stories on Yemen, articles on Yemen, Yemen stories at Wion, Yemen news, Yemen latest news