It is hard for any Middle East peace accord to have an effect on ground until grievances of people in Palestine were addressed, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Yemen Mustapha Noman said on Wednesday at &nbsp;WION's Global Summit 2021 in Dubai.

"Unless the grievances of the people in Palestine are solved justly, I think any agreement that will happen in future will also not be reflected on the ground," he said.

Noman was speaking at a session titled Peace Deals &amp; the Shifting Sands of West Asia, specifically answering a question on the Abraham Accords on normalisation of ties between Israel and key Arab states.

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The Abraham Accords of 2020 resulted in normalisation of ties of Israel with Bahrain as well as UAE.

Bahrain and UAE became the key Arab states to establish ties with Israel after decades of enmity. &nbsp;The Abraham Accords were brokered by the US during last few months of Donald Trump's presidency.&nbsp;They were largely considered to be a thaw in frosty relations between Israel and Arab countries.

However, Mustapha Noman said that he was "not very optimistic".

"The issue will always be there unless we tackle the matter unless we really work hard towards a two-state solution," he said.

It is hard for any Middle East peace accord to have an effect on ground until grievances of people in Palestine were addressed, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Yemen Mustapha Noman said on Wednesday at WION's Global Summit 2021 in Dubai.

It is hard for any Middle East peace accord to have an effect on ground until grievances of people in Palestine were addressed, former Deputy Foreign Minister of Yemen Mustapha Noman said on Wednesday at WION's Global Summit 2021 in Dubai. "Unless the grievances of the people in Palestine are solved justly, I think any agreement that will happen in future will also not be reflected on the ground," he said. Noman was speaking at a session titled Peace Deals & the Shifting Sands of West Asia, specifically answering a question on the Abraham Accords on normalisation of ties between Israel and key Arab states. × The Abraham Accords of 2020 resulted in normalisation of ties of Israel with Bahrain as well as UAE. Bahrain and UAE became the key Arab states to establish ties with Israel after decades of enmity. The Abraham Accords were brokered by the US during last few months of Donald Trump's presidency. They were largely considered to be a thaw in frosty relations between Israel and Arab countries. However, Mustapha Noman said that he was "not very optimistic". "The issue will always be there unless we tackle the matter unless we really work hard towards a two-state solution," he said.

Addressing Palestinian grievances necessary: Former Yemen minister tells WION Global Summit

A drone strike sparked a fire at a Riyadh oil refinery Friday, in an attack claimed by Yemen's Huthi rebels, as the Iran-backed insurgents made major advances on the embattled Yemeni city of Marib.

The attack at dawn on the refinery is the second major assault this month on Saudi energy installations, highlighting an escalation of Yemen's six-year conflict between the Saudi-backed Yemeni government and the Iran-linked Huthis.

"The Riyadh oil refinery was attacked by drones, resulting in a fire that has been brought under control," the Saudi energy ministry said in a statement, adding that no casualties were reported and oil supplies were not disrupted.

Strongly condemning the "cowardly attack", the ministry said the drone strikes were not just an assault on the kingdom but the world economy and global energy security.

In a statement, the Huthi rebels claimed to have targeted energy giant Aramco in Riyadh with six drones in response to the "brutal aggression" of the Saudi-backed military coalition in Yemen.

The rebels are stepping up cross-border attacks on the kingdom despite a renewed push by the US administration of President Joe Biden to revive stalled peace talks.

The US condemned the drone strike as an attempt "to disrupt energy supplies by targeting Saudi infrastructure".&nbsp;

"This behaviour shows an utter lack of concern for the safety of the civilian population either working or living near the sites," State Department deputy spokeswoman Jalina Porter told reporters, adding the US was "deeply concerned by the frequency of attacks on Saudi Arabia".

The latest assault comes after Saudi Arabia earlier this month said it thwarted a missile and drone attack on Ras Tanura -- one of the world's biggest oil ports -- and Aramco facilities in Dhahran city in the kingdom's east. It reported no casualties or damage.

Friday's attack coincides with major Huthi advances on Marib city after the rebels took a strategic mountain in clashes that caused dozens of casualties on both sides, according to Yemeni government sources.

The Huthis "took control of Mount Hilan overlooking the city, after fighting that left dozens of dead and wounded on both sides", one of the sources told AFP.

"Marib is in danger," another source said, adding that the loss of the mountain posed "a threat to Marib's first line of defence".

- Intense battle -

Since last month, the rebels have been pushing to seize Marib, the government's last northern stronghold and the capital of an oil-rich region.

The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including at least one million displaced people sheltering in the region, many in desolate camps in the surrounding desert.

The Huthis had "cut the supply lines of some fronts and are now within firing range of the Al-Mashjab line west of Marib city", a second source added.

Despite the advance, analysts say the city may not fall to the rebels any time soon, given the overwhelming firepower of the Saudi-led coalition.

"An imminent fall of Marib remains unlikely," Maged al-Madhaji of the Sanaa Center think-tank told AFP, although this was "an important advance that puts additional pressure" on government forces.&nbsp;

The coalition intervened in the conflict in 2015, enforcing a naval and air blockade to prevent the smuggling of weapons to the rebels from Iran -- allegations Tehran denies.&nbsp;

The rebels say any ceasefire agreement can only begin after the Saudi-led blockade of Yemen is lifted.

- 'Grave risk' -

The news of their advance came just hours after the United Nations Security Council condemned the "escalation" of armed clashes around Marib city and warned of a worsening humanitarian catastrophe.

The fighting "places one million internally displaced persons at grave risk and threatens efforts to secure a political settlement when the international community is increasingly united to end the conflict," it said.

It "stressed the need for de-escalation by all, including an immediate end to the Huthi escalation in Marib (and) condemned the use of child soldiers in Marib".

Life in the city retains a veneer of normality despite the conflict that rages outside, but there is a sense of dread as the fighting draws nearer.&nbsp;

"We condemn what is happening to the city of Marib. Our children are terrified," one resident, Umm Ali, told AFP.

Another resident, Mohammed Yahya, said the city would "remain steadfast".&nbsp;

"This is what history told us -- that, throughout the ages, Marib has been the thorn that breaks down any enemy that wants any harm to Yemen," he said.

Tens of thousands of people, mostly civilians, have been killed and millions displaced in Yemen's long war, which has crippled the economy and healthcare system.

The UN has declared Yemen the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

A drone strike sparked a fire at a Riyadh oil refinery Friday, in an attack claimed by Yemen's Huthi rebels, as the Iran-backed insurgents made major advances on the embattled Yemeni city of Marib.

A drone strike sparked a fire at a Riyadh oil refinery Friday, in an attack claimed by Yemen's Huthi rebels, as the Iran-backed insurgents made major advances on the embattled Yemeni city of Marib. The attack at dawn on the refinery is the second major assault this month on Saudi energy installations, highlighting an escalation of Yemen's six-year conflict between the Saudi-backed Yemeni government and the Iran-linked Huthis. "The Riyadh oil refinery was attacked by drones, resulting in a fire that has been brought under control," the Saudi energy ministry said in a statement, adding that no casualties were reported and oil supplies were not disrupted. Strongly condemning the "cowardly attack", the ministry said the drone strikes were not just an assault on the kingdom but the world economy and global energy security. In a statement, the Huthi rebels claimed to have targeted energy giant Aramco in Riyadh with six drones in response to the "brutal aggression" of the Saudi-backed military coalition in Yemen. The rebels are stepping up cross-border attacks on the kingdom despite a renewed push by the US administration of President Joe Biden to revive stalled peace talks. The US condemned the drone strike as an attempt "to disrupt energy supplies by targeting Saudi infrastructure". "This behaviour shows an utter lack of concern for the safety of the civilian population either working or living near the sites," State Department deputy spokeswoman Jalina Porter told reporters, adding the US was "deeply concerned by the frequency of attacks on Saudi Arabia". The latest assault comes after Saudi Arabia earlier this month said it thwarted a missile and drone attack on Ras Tanura -- one of the world's biggest oil ports -- and Aramco facilities in Dhahran city in the kingdom's east. It reported no casualties or damage. Friday's attack coincides with major Huthi advances on Marib city after the rebels took a strategic mountain in clashes that caused dozens of casualties on both sides, according to Yemeni government sources. The Huthis "took control of Mount Hilan overlooking the city, after fighting that left dozens of dead and wounded on both sides", one of the sources told AFP. "Marib is in danger," another source said, adding that the loss of the mountain posed "a threat to Marib's first line of defence". - Intense battle - Since last month, the rebels have been pushing to seize Marib, the government's last northern stronghold and the capital of an oil-rich region. The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including at least one million displaced people sheltering in the region, many in desolate camps in the surrounding desert. The Huthis had "cut the supply lines of some fronts and are now within firing range of the Al-Mashjab line west of Marib city", a second source added. Despite the advance, analysts say the city may not fall to the rebels any time soon, given the overwhelming firepower of the Saudi-led coalition. "An imminent fall of Marib remains unlikely," Maged al-Madhaji of the Sanaa Center think-tank told AFP, although this was "an important advance that puts additional pressure" on government forces. The coalition intervened in the conflict in 2015, enforcing a naval and air blockade to prevent the smuggling of weapons to the rebels from Iran -- allegations Tehran denies. The rebels say any ceasefire agreement can only begin after the Saudi-led blockade of Yemen is lifted. - 'Grave risk' - The news of their advance came just hours after the United Nations Security Council condemned the "escalation" of armed clashes around Marib city and warned of a worsening humanitarian catastrophe. The fighting "places one million internally displaced persons at grave risk and threatens efforts to secure a political settlement when the international community is increasingly united to end the conflict," it said. It "stressed the need for de-escalation by all, including an immediate end to the Huthi escalation in Marib (and) condemned the use of child soldiers in Marib". Life in the city retains a veneer of normality despite the conflict that rages outside, but there is a sense of dread as the fighting draws nearer. "We condemn what is happening to the city of Marib. Our children are terrified," one resident, Umm Ali, told AFP. Another resident, Mohammed Yahya, said the city would "remain steadfast". "This is what history told us -- that, throughout the ages, Marib has been the thorn that breaks down any enemy that wants any harm to Yemen," he said. Tens of thousands of people, mostly civilians, have been killed and millions displaced in Yemen's long war, which has crippled the economy and healthcare system. The UN has declared Yemen the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Drones spark fire at Saudi refinery as Huthis advance on Yemen's Marib

Saudi Arabian energy ministry on Friday said that a drone attack in capital Riyadh sparked a fire at an oil refinery. The attack has been claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels.

"The Riyadh oil refinery was attacked by drones, resulting in a fire that has been brought under control," the ministry said in a statement.

It added that no casualties were reported and oil supplies were not disrupted..

Houthi rebels on Friday claimed that they targetted energy giant Aramco with six drones.

Houthi rebels are fighting Saudi Arabian-led military coalition in Yemen. The Houthis are backed by Iran.

Saudi Arabian energy ministry on Friday said that a drone attack in capital Riyadh sparked a fire at an oil refinery. The attack has been claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels.

Saudi Arabian energy ministry on Friday said that a drone attack in capital Riyadh sparked a fire at an oil refinery. The attack has been claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels. "The Riyadh oil refinery was attacked by drones, resulting in a fire that has been brought under control," the ministry said in a statement. It added that no casualties were reported and oil supplies were not disrupted.. Houthi rebels on Friday claimed that they targetted energy giant Aramco with six drones. Houthi rebels are fighting Saudi Arabian-led military coalition in Yemen. The Houthis are backed by Iran.

Saudi Arabian oil refinery on fire due to drone attack, says ministry

The situation in Yemen is worrying. Yemeni protesters stormed the residential Palace when cabinet members were inside. The UN's top envoy in Yemen says the war 'is back in full force'. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: War in Yemen back in full force

The conflict in Yemen has been called the forgotten war. The situation is worrying but it often doesn't make headlines because it is nobody's problem'. Recently angry protesters storm the Presidential Palace in Aden.

Yemen: Public anger grows as protesters storm the Presidential Palace in Aden

The Yemen war intensified amid an international and regional diplomatic push to end the conflict that began with the 2014 takeover of the capital Sanaa by the Iran-backed Houthis. Yemen was devastated by the escalating conflict in 2015.

Yemen war 'back in full force', US envoy to UN calls for a ceasefire

United Nations on Tuesday called for an independent probe of Yemen capital fire that killed dozens of migrants in a holding facility. The fire had raged on March 7 in Yemen's capital Sanaa.

"There must be an independent investigation into the cause of the fire," the UN envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, told the Security Council.

Human Rights Watch earlier Tuesday blamed the March 7 fire on "unidentified projectiles" fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels.

Iran-backed Houthi rebels control northern Yemen, including Sanaa.

Griffiths said, "the world was reminded of the plight of the migrant community last week when an extraordinary, horrific fire broke out at a detention facility in Sanaa holding predominantly Ethiopian migrants."

He said that 170 were seriously injured in the fire while dozens were killed.

HRW said detainees had been protesting against overcrowding when camp guards rounded up hundreds of them into a hangar and fired two projectiles into the building.

"The migrants said the first projectile produced a lot of smoke and made their eyes water and sting. The second, which the migrants called a 'bomb,' exploded loudly and started a fire," HRW said.&nbsp;

"Huthi authorities should urgently engage with Ethiopian authorities whose nationals are languishing in Yemeni detention centres under their control," HRW said.

(With AFP inputs)

United Nations on Tuesday called for an independent probe of Yemen capital fire that killed dozens of migrants in a holding facility. The fire had raged on March 7 in Yemen's capital Sanaa.

United Nations on Tuesday called for an independent probe of Yemen capital fire that killed dozens of migrants in a holding facility. The fire had raged on March 7 in Yemen's capital Sanaa. "There must be an independent investigation into the cause of the fire," the UN envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, told the Security Council. Human Rights Watch earlier Tuesday blamed the March 7 fire on "unidentified projectiles" fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Iran-backed Houthi rebels control northern Yemen, including Sanaa. Griffiths said, "the world was reminded of the plight of the migrant community last week when an extraordinary, horrific fire broke out at a detention facility in Sanaa holding predominantly Ethiopian migrants." He said that 170 were seriously injured in the fire while dozens were killed. HRW said detainees had been protesting against overcrowding when camp guards rounded up hundreds of them into a hangar and fired two projectiles into the building. "The migrants said the first projectile produced a lot of smoke and made their eyes water and sting. The second, which the migrants called a 'bomb,' exploded loudly and started a fire," HRW said. "Huthi authorities should urgently engage with Ethiopian authorities whose nationals are languishing in Yemeni detention centres under their control," HRW said. (With AFP inputs)

Independent investigation needed into Yemen fire: UN

The UN migration agency has urged rebels who control the Yemeni capital Sanaa to provide access to dozens of African migrants who were seriously injured in a weekend hostel fire.

The Sunday blaze at an overcrowed holding facility in Sanaa killed an unconfirmed number of migrants and injured more than 170, over half of them seriously, the International Organization for Migration said.

"As many migrants are in a critical condition, meeting their health needs must be an urgent priority,"&nbsp;IOM Middle East and North Africa director Carmela Godeau said in a statement Tuesday.&nbsp;

"We are facing challenges accessing the injured due to an increased security presence in the hospitals," she said.&nbsp;

"Humanitarians and health workers must be given access to support the treatment of those affected by the fire."

There has still been no word from the Huthi rebel authorities on what caused&nbsp;Sunday's fire or how many people it killed.

The IOM said more than 350 migrants, most of them from Ethiopia, were in a hangar area where the fire broke out.

"While the cause of the fire is still unconfirmed, its impact is clearly horrific," said Godeau.

Despite more than six years of devastating conflict in Yemen that have created what the UN describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, the impoverished country is still a magnet for migrants from the nearby Horn to Africa seeking a better life in neighbouring Saudi Arabia.

Restrictions on movement imposed during the coronavirus pandemic have led to a reduction in migrant arrivals from more than 138,000 in 2019 to just over 37,500 in 2020.

But they have also led to "thousands of migrants becoming stranded with little access to basic services or protection," the IOM said.&nbsp;

It said it was working with Ethiopian authorities to restart a voluntary repatriation programme for stranded migrants.

More than 6,000 have registered to return home from Yemen's government-held second city Aden, of whom a first 1,100 are are expected to leave in the coming weeks, the IOM said.&nbsp;

The UN migration agency has urged rebels who control the Yemeni capital Sanaa to provide access to dozens of African migrants who were seriously injured in a weekend hostel fire.

The UN migration agency has urged rebels who control the Yemeni capital Sanaa to provide access to dozens of African migrants who were seriously injured in a weekend hostel fire. The Sunday blaze at an overcrowed holding facility in Sanaa killed an unconfirmed number of migrants and injured more than 170, over half of them seriously, the International Organization for Migration said. "As many migrants are in a critical condition, meeting their health needs must be an urgent priority," IOM Middle East and North Africa director Carmela Godeau said in a statement Tuesday. "We are facing challenges accessing the injured due to an increased security presence in the hospitals," she said. "Humanitarians and health workers must be given access to support the treatment of those affected by the fire." There has still been no word from the Huthi rebel authorities on what caused Sunday's fire or how many people it killed. The IOM said more than 350 migrants, most of them from Ethiopia, were in a hangar area where the fire broke out. "While the cause of the fire is still unconfirmed, its impact is clearly horrific," said Godeau. Despite more than six years of devastating conflict in Yemen that have created what the UN describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, the impoverished country is still a magnet for migrants from the nearby Horn to Africa seeking a better life in neighbouring Saudi Arabia. Restrictions on movement imposed during the coronavirus pandemic have led to a reduction in migrant arrivals from more than 138,000 in 2019 to just over 37,500 in 2020. But they have also led to "thousands of migrants becoming stranded with little access to basic services or protection," the IOM said. It said it was working with Ethiopian authorities to restart a voluntary repatriation programme for stranded migrants. More than 6,000 have registered to return home from Yemen's government-held second city Aden, of whom a first 1,100 are are expected to leave in the coming weeks, the IOM said.

UN seeks access to migrants injured in Yemen blaze

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday.&nbsp;

The Shiite rebels launched an offensive last month to seize Marib, the last stronghold in northern Yemen of pro-government forces, who are backed by a Saudi-led military coalition.&nbsp;

The clashes in the oil-rich province left 32 dead among government forces and loyalist tribes, while 58 Huthi rebels were killed in coalition air strikes, the sources said.&nbsp;

They said heavy clashes broke out on six fronts as government forces were able to counter attacks by the Huthis, who managed to advance only on the Kassara front northwest of Marib city.&nbsp;

The fighting also left dozens of people wounded, the sources added.&nbsp;

The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including hundreds of thousands of displaced people sheltering in desolate camps in the surrounding desert.&nbsp;

It would also be a major setback for Saudi Arabia, which has been the target of increasingly frequent Huthi missile attacks in recent weeks.&nbsp;

Shrapnel from Huthi drones intercepted by the Saudis on Friday wounded two civilians, including a 10-year-old, in the southwest of the kingdom, the official SPA news agency reported.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday urged the Huthis to halt their offensive in Marib, as he announced $191 million in aid at a donors' conference.&nbsp;

"Aid alone will not end the conflict. We can only end the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by ending the war... so the United States is reinvigorating our diplomatic efforts to end the war," he said.&nbsp;

The United Nations had sought to raise $3.85 billion from more than 100 governments and donors, but only $1.7 billion was offered.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday.

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday. The Shiite rebels launched an offensive last month to seize Marib, the last stronghold in northern Yemen of pro-government forces, who are backed by a Saudi-led military coalition. The clashes in the oil-rich province left 32 dead among government forces and loyalist tribes, while 58 Huthi rebels were killed in coalition air strikes, the sources said. They said heavy clashes broke out on six fronts as government forces were able to counter attacks by the Huthis, who managed to advance only on the Kassara front northwest of Marib city. The fighting also left dozens of people wounded, the sources added. The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including hundreds of thousands of displaced people sheltering in desolate camps in the surrounding desert. It would also be a major setback for Saudi Arabia, which has been the target of increasingly frequent Huthi missile attacks in recent weeks. Shrapnel from Huthi drones intercepted by the Saudis on Friday wounded two civilians, including a 10-year-old, in the southwest of the kingdom, the official SPA news agency reported. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday urged the Huthis to halt their offensive in Marib, as he announced $191 million in aid at a donors' conference. "Aid alone will not end the conflict. We can only end the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by ending the war... so the United States is reinvigorating our diplomatic efforts to end the war," he said. The United Nations had sought to raise $3.85 billion from more than 100 governments and donors, but only $1.7 billion was offered. (With inputs from agencies)

Fighting in Yemen's Marib kills 90 in 24 hours: Sources 

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday defended his government's plan to halve humanitarian aid for war-torn Yemen while continuing to sell arms to Saudi Arabia, despite a US freeze on its weapons' exports.

An international aid conference on Yemen this week yielded less than half the funds needed to prevent what the UN warns is a looming famine.&nbsp;

"Cutting aid is a death sentence," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned, in remarks echoed in the UK parliament by opposition leaders grilling Johnson at weekly prime minister's questions.

Britain pledged £87 million ($122 million, 100 million euros), about half the amount it offered at last year's Yemen conference, and only 40 percent of the total funding it provided to the shattered country during 2020.&nbsp;

"How on earth can the prime minister justify selling arms to Saudi Arabia and cutting aid to people starving in Yemen?" said Keir Starmer, leader of the main opposition Labour party.

He pointed to last month's decision by the new administration of President Joe Biden to pause US arms sales to Saudi Arabia, which is leading a devastating conflict against Huthi rebels in Yemen, pending a review.

"It is true that current straightened circumstances, which I'm sure the people of this country understand, mean that temporarily we must reduce aid spending," Johnson replied, noting the Covid-19 pandemic's impact on UK finances.

"But that does not obscure the fact that when it comes to our duty to the people of Yemen, we continue to step up to the plate," he said, noting Britain has given about £1 billion in the past five years, since the Saudi-led bombing campaign began.

"It's a record of which this country can be proud. Given the difficulties that this country faces, I think the people of this country will think we've got our priorities right."

Johnson added that the government continues "scrupulously to follow the humanitarian guidance which are amongst the toughest measures anywhere in the world in respect of all arms sales".

Citing the pandemic, the UK government is planning to scrap a legally enshrined target for its aid budget this year, leading to accusations even from its own ranks that it is abandoning some of the world's poorest and most vulnerable people.

Former international development secretary Andrew Mitchell, bitterly criticising the decision on Yemen, said cutting the UK's overall aid commitment was a "strategic mistake with deadly consequences".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday defended his government's plan to halve humanitarian aid for war-torn Yemen while continuing to sell arms to Saudi Arabia, despite a US freeze on its weapons' exports.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday defended his government's plan to halve humanitarian aid for war-torn Yemen while continuing to sell arms to Saudi Arabia, despite a US freeze on its weapons' exports. An international aid conference on Yemen this week yielded less than half the funds needed to prevent what the UN warns is a looming famine. "Cutting aid is a death sentence," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned, in remarks echoed in the UK parliament by opposition leaders grilling Johnson at weekly prime minister's questions. Britain pledged £87 million ($122 million, 100 million euros), about half the amount it offered at last year's Yemen conference, and only 40 percent of the total funding it provided to the shattered country during 2020. "How on earth can the prime minister justify selling arms to Saudi Arabia and cutting aid to people starving in Yemen?" said Keir Starmer, leader of the main opposition Labour party. He pointed to last month's decision by the new administration of President Joe Biden to pause US arms sales to Saudi Arabia, which is leading a devastating conflict against Huthi rebels in Yemen, pending a review. "It is true that current straightened circumstances, which I'm sure the people of this country understand, mean that temporarily we must reduce aid spending," Johnson replied, noting the Covid-19 pandemic's impact on UK finances. "But that does not obscure the fact that when it comes to our duty to the people of Yemen, we continue to step up to the plate," he said, noting Britain has given about £1 billion in the past five years, since the Saudi-led bombing campaign began. "It's a record of which this country can be proud. Given the difficulties that this country faces, I think the people of this country will think we've got our priorities right." Johnson added that the government continues "scrupulously to follow the humanitarian guidance which are amongst the toughest measures anywhere in the world in respect of all arms sales". Citing the pandemic, the UK government is planning to scrap a legally enshrined target for its aid budget this year, leading to accusations even from its own ranks that it is abandoning some of the world's poorest and most vulnerable people. Former international development secretary Andrew Mitchell, bitterly criticising the decision on Yemen, said cutting the UK's overall aid commitment was a "strategic mistake with deadly consequences".

UK defends Yemen aid cuts and arms sales to Saudi

Saudi Arabia-led millitary coalition said on Saturday that it thwarted a missile attack launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Loud explosions shook Riyadh on Saturday. Houthi rebels have intensified their efforts top capture Marib. The last stronghold held by Saudi-backed Yemeni government. Houthi rebels have Iran's backing. Yemen's some of the most richest oil fields are located in Marib.

The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted a Huthi ballistic missile targeting Riyadh, according to the official SPA news agency.

Fragments of missile scattered over several Riyadh neighbourhood. At least one home was damaged but no casualties were reported, said state-run Al-Ekhbariya television.

AFP correspondents in the Saudi capital reported hearing multiple loud explosions. The night sky lit up with a bright flash following the interception of a missile, state television footage showed.

Separately, the coalition said it intercepted six Huthi drones targeting the kingdom, including the southern cities of Khamis Mushait and Jizan.

Houthi rebels have not immediately claimed responsibility for any of the attacks. The rebels in past, have struck southern areas and have targetted Riyadh with missiles and drones.

The assaults came as Saudi Arabia hosted a Formula E championship on the outskirts of Riyadh, which state media said was attended by de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Houthi rebels have intensified cross-border attacks on Saudi Arabia after the US delisted the rebels as terrorists.

The designation, imposed by the administration of former US president Donald Trump, had been widely criticised by aid organisations, who warned it would hamper their efforts to alleviate a humanitarian crisis in Yemen.

US President Joe Biden halted support to Saudi offensive operations in Yemen's war, which he called a "catastrophe" that "has to end". But he also reiterated US support for Saudi Arabia in defending its territory.

(With AFP inputs)

Saudi Arabia-led millitary coalition said on Saturday that it thwarted a missile attack launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Loud explosions shook Riyadh on Saturday.

Saudi Arabia-led millitary coalition said on Saturday that it thwarted a missile attack launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Loud explosions shook Riyadh on Saturday. Houthi rebels have intensified their efforts top capture Marib. The last stronghold held by Saudi-backed Yemeni government. Houthi rebels have Iran's backing. Yemen's some of the most richest oil fields are located in Marib. The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted a Huthi ballistic missile targeting Riyadh, according to the official SPA news agency. Fragments of missile scattered over several Riyadh neighbourhood. At least one home was damaged but no casualties were reported, said state-run Al-Ekhbariya television. AFP correspondents in the Saudi capital reported hearing multiple loud explosions. The night sky lit up with a bright flash following the interception of a missile, state television footage showed. Separately, the coalition said it intercepted six Huthi drones targeting the kingdom, including the southern cities of Khamis Mushait and Jizan. Houthi rebels have not immediately claimed responsibility for any of the attacks. The rebels in past, have struck southern areas and have targetted Riyadh with missiles and drones. The assaults came as Saudi Arabia hosted a Formula E championship on the outskirts of Riyadh, which state media said was attended by de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Houthi rebels have intensified cross-border attacks on Saudi Arabia after the US delisted the rebels as terrorists. The designation, imposed by the administration of former US president Donald Trump, had been widely criticised by aid organisations, who warned it would hamper their efforts to alleviate a humanitarian crisis in Yemen. US President Joe Biden halted support to Saudi offensive operations in Yemen's war, which he called a "catastrophe" that "has to end". But he also reiterated US support for Saudi Arabia in defending its territory. (With AFP inputs)

Houthi missile attack on Riyadh thwarted, says Saudi Arabia

Saudi-backed Yemen government on Saturday accused Houthi rebels of using civilians as human shields in their renewed offensive against the rebels' last major toehold in the north. Earlier this month, the Iran-backed rebels resumed a push to capture the city of Marib, 120 kilometres (75 miles) east of the rebel-held capital Sanaa.

Marib lies close to some of Yemen's richest oil fields. Capture of Marib will be major prize for the rebels. But fighting raised fears for hundreds of thousands of civilians who have sought shelter in camps in the surrounding desert.&nbsp;

Loyalist military officials told AFP the rebels had been using residents of Al-Zor camp in the province's Sirwah district as "human shields". The rebels captured the area last week

The officials said there had been no let-up in the fighting.

Over the past 24 hours, at least 12 loyalist and 20 rebel fighters had been killed in clashes north and west of Marib, they said.

There was no way to independently verify the death toll but it is clear that both sides have suffered heavy casualties in the renewed battle for the city.

Until early last year, Marib had been spared the worst of the civil war that erupted in 2014.

The International Committee of the Red Cross has said it is "extremely concerned" by the recent fighting.&nbsp;

"The ICRC urges all parties to the conflict to take every possible measure to protect the civilians, their properties and all civilian essential infrastructures," it said on Twitter.

The UN has warned of the potential for a humanitarian disaster.&nbsp;

"It puts millions of civilians at risk, especially with the fighting reaching camps for internally displaced persons," envoy Martin Griffiths told the UN Security Council.

\The Huthi offensive came as the new US administration removed the rebels from Washington's blacklist of terrorist organisations in a bid to facilitate aid deliveries to rebel-held areas and pave the way for renewed peace talks.

President Joe Biden has also announced an end to US backing for Saudi offensive operations in Yemen, which he said had created a "humanitarian and strategic catastrophe."&nbsp; 
Observers say the Huthis want to capture Marib to strengthen their hand in eventual peace negotiations.

(With AFP inputs)

Saudi-backed Yemen government on Saturday accused Houthi rebels of using civilians as human shields in their renewed offensive against the rebels' last major toehold in the north.

Saudi-backed Yemen government on Saturday accused Houthi rebels of using civilians as human shields in their renewed offensive against the rebels' last major toehold in the north. Earlier this month, the Iran-backed rebels resumed a push to capture the city of Marib, 120 kilometres (75 miles) east of the rebel-held capital Sanaa. Marib lies close to some of Yemen's richest oil fields. Capture of Marib will be major prize for the rebels. But fighting raised fears for hundreds of thousands of civilians who have sought shelter in camps in the surrounding desert. Loyalist military officials told AFP the rebels had been using residents of Al-Zor camp in the province's Sirwah district as "human shields". The rebels captured the area last week The officials said there had been no let-up in the fighting. Over the past 24 hours, at least 12 loyalist and 20 rebel fighters had been killed in clashes north and west of Marib, they said. There was no way to independently verify the death toll but it is clear that both sides have suffered heavy casualties in the renewed battle for the city. Until early last year, Marib had been spared the worst of the civil war that erupted in 2014. The International Committee of the Red Cross has said it is "extremely concerned" by the recent fighting. "The ICRC urges all parties to the conflict to take every possible measure to protect the civilians, their properties and all civilian essential infrastructures," it said on Twitter. The UN has warned of the potential for a humanitarian disaster. "It puts millions of civilians at risk, especially with the fighting reaching camps for internally displaced persons," envoy Martin Griffiths told the UN Security Council. \The Huthi offensive came as the new US administration removed the rebels from Washington's blacklist of terrorist organisations in a bid to facilitate aid deliveries to rebel-held areas and pave the way for renewed peace talks. President Joe Biden has also announced an end to US backing for Saudi offensive operations in Yemen, which he said had created a "humanitarian and strategic catastrophe." Observers say the Huthis want to capture Marib to strengthen their hand in eventual peace negotiations. (With AFP inputs)

Yemen accuses Houthi rebels of using human shields

Global oil prices have jumped after Iran backed Houthis in Yemen attacked Saudi targets. The growing tensions could have an impact on your petrol bills. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how you could feel the pinch.

Gravitas: Tensions spike in Yemen: How you could feel the pinch

Dozens were killed in overnight clashes in Yemen as Iran-backed Huthi rebels intensified attacks to seize the government's last northern stronghold, officials said Sunday.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the Huthis resumed an offensive to seize oil-rich Marib, some 120 kilometres (75 miles) east of the capital Sanaa.

The city's loss would be disastrous for Yemen's beleaguered leadership.

Two government military officials said at least 16 pro-government forces were killed and 21 wounded in the past 24 hours, adding that "dozens were killed" among Huthi ranks.&nbsp;

The Huthis have cut off supply lines to a district about 50 kilometres south of the city, with "the goal to lay siege to Marib", one of the sources said.

Yemen has been embroiled in a bloody power struggle since 2014 between its government, supported by Saudi Arabia, and Huthi rebels, who control the capital Sanaa and most of the north.

The rebels have also escalated attacks against Saudi Arabia, drawing condemnation from the international community.

On Sunday, the kingdom intercepted two Huthi bomb-laden drones fired towards the southern garrison town of Khamis Mushait, the official Saudi Press Agency cited the Riyadh-led military coalition as saying.&nbsp;

But a Huthi military spokesman said two rebel drones struck the airport in the nearby city of Abha.

On Saturday, the kingdom said it had foiled another Huthi drone attack on Abha airport, just days after a rebel drone strike on the facility left a civilian plane ablaze.

The upsurge in violence comes shortly after the United States decided to remove the rebels from its list of terrorist groups in order to ensure humanitarian work in Yemen is unimpeded and to pave the way to restart peace talks.

- 'Foreign enemy' -

Observers say the Huthis are seeking to take control of Marib as leverage before entering into any negotiations with the internationally recognised government.

If the city falls into rebel hands, the Huthis will have full control of north Yemen, weakening the government's negotiating position, according to observers.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in Marib in recent years, and the Saudi-led coalition has intensified air strikes to stop the rebels from seizing the city.&nbsp;

Yemen's grinding conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions, according to international organisations, sparking what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Huthi spokesman Mohamed Abdelsalam tweeted on Saturday that the rebels were fighting "only those militarily involved with the foreign enemy", amid government calls for residents to defend the city.

"May the honourable people of Marib be reassured... and acknowledge that the aggressor coalition is fighting them, not for them," he said.&nbsp;

On Friday, UN agencies warned that about 400,000 Yemeni children aged under five are in danger of dying of acute malnutrition this year.

The UN agencies also warned that about 1.2 million pregnant or breastfeeding women are expected to suffer from extreme malnutrition in 2021.

Dozens were killed in overnight clashes in Yemen as Iran-backed Huthi rebels intensified attacks to seize the government's last northern stronghold, officials said Sunday.

Dozens were killed in overnight clashes in Yemen as Iran-backed Huthi rebels intensified attacks to seize the government's last northern stronghold, officials said Sunday. Earlier this month, the Huthis resumed an offensive to seize oil-rich Marib, some 120 kilometres (75 miles) east of the capital Sanaa. The city's loss would be disastrous for Yemen's beleaguered leadership. Two government military officials said at least 16 pro-government forces were killed and 21 wounded in the past 24 hours, adding that "dozens were killed" among Huthi ranks. The Huthis have cut off supply lines to a district about 50 kilometres south of the city, with "the goal to lay siege to Marib", one of the sources said. Yemen has been embroiled in a bloody power struggle since 2014 between its government, supported by Saudi Arabia, and Huthi rebels, who control the capital Sanaa and most of the north. The rebels have also escalated attacks against Saudi Arabia, drawing condemnation from the international community. On Sunday, the kingdom intercepted two Huthi bomb-laden drones fired towards the southern garrison town of Khamis Mushait, the official Saudi Press Agency cited the Riyadh-led military coalition as saying. But a Huthi military spokesman said two rebel drones struck the airport in the nearby city of Abha. On Saturday, the kingdom said it had foiled another Huthi drone attack on Abha airport, just days after a rebel drone strike on the facility left a civilian plane ablaze. The upsurge in violence comes shortly after the United States decided to remove the rebels from its list of terrorist groups in order to ensure humanitarian work in Yemen is unimpeded and to pave the way to restart peace talks. - 'Foreign enemy' - Observers say the Huthis are seeking to take control of Marib as leverage before entering into any negotiations with the internationally recognised government. If the city falls into rebel hands, the Huthis will have full control of north Yemen, weakening the government's negotiating position, according to observers. Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in Marib in recent years, and the Saudi-led coalition has intensified air strikes to stop the rebels from seizing the city. Yemen's grinding conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions, according to international organisations, sparking what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Huthi spokesman Mohamed Abdelsalam tweeted on Saturday that the rebels were fighting "only those militarily involved with the foreign enemy", amid government calls for residents to defend the city. "May the honourable people of Marib be reassured... and acknowledge that the aggressor coalition is fighting them, not for them," he said. On Friday, UN agencies warned that about 400,000 Yemeni children aged under five are in danger of dying of acute malnutrition this year. The UN agencies also warned that about 1.2 million pregnant or breastfeeding women are expected to suffer from extreme malnutrition in 2021.

Dozens killed in overnight clashes in northern Yemen

More than 2 million Yemeni children under the age of 5 are expected to endure acute malnutrition in 2021, four United Nations agencies said on Friday.

These agencies also urged stakeholders to end the years-long conflict that has brought the country to the brink of famine.

The UN report warned that nearly one in six of those kids -- 400,000 of the 2.3 million -- are at risk of death due to severe acute malnutrition this year, a significant increase from last year's estimates. Around 1.2 million pregnant or breastfeeding women in Yemen are also projected to be acutely malnourished this year.

The report also said a lack of funds was hampering humanitarian programmes in Yemen, as donor nations have failed to make good on their commitments.

In 2020, humanitarian programmes in Yemen received only USD 1.9 billion of the required USD 3.4 billion, the report said.

UNICEF estimates that virtually all of Yemen's 12 million children require some sort of assistance. This can include food aid, health services, clean water, schooling and cash grants to help the poorest families scrape by.

"Malnourished children are more vulnerable to diseases ... It is a vicious and often deadly cycle, but with relatively cheap and simple interventions, many lives can be saved," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Yemenis have suffered six years of bloodshed, destruction and humanitarian catastrophe. In 2014, the Iran-allied Houthi rebels seized the capital and much of the country's north.

More than 2 million Yemeni children under the age of 5 are expected to endure acute malnutrition in 2021, four United Nations agencies said on Friday. These agencies also urged stakeholders to end the years-long conflict that has brought the country to the brink of famine.

More than 2 million Yemeni children under the age of 5 are expected to endure acute malnutrition in 2021, four United Nations agencies said on Friday. These agencies also urged stakeholders to end the years-long conflict that has brought the country to the brink of famine. The UN report warned that nearly one in six of those kids -- 400,000 of the 2.3 million -- are at risk of death due to severe acute malnutrition this year, a significant increase from last year's estimates. Around 1.2 million pregnant or breastfeeding women in Yemen are also projected to be acutely malnourished this year. The report also said a lack of funds was hampering humanitarian programmes in Yemen, as donor nations have failed to make good on their commitments. In 2020, humanitarian programmes in Yemen received only USD 1.9 billion of the required USD 3.4 billion, the report said. UNICEF estimates that virtually all of Yemen's 12 million children require some sort of assistance. This can include food aid, health services, clean water, schooling and cash grants to help the poorest families scrape by. "Malnourished children are more vulnerable to diseases ... It is a vicious and often deadly cycle, but with relatively cheap and simple interventions, many lives can be saved," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Yemenis have suffered six years of bloodshed, destruction and humanitarian catastrophe. In 2014, the Iran-allied Houthi rebels seized the capital and much of the country's north.

Over 2 million Yemeni children may starve in 2021, UN says

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud about diplomatic efforts to end the war in Yemen. US State Department and Saudi state media said that the two ministers discussed the need ti find political solution to the war in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia leads a coalition that intervened in Yemen 2015 and backed government forces against Houthi rebels. UN has called the subsequent war the largest humanitarian crisis in the world.

Saudi state media and the state department said the two ministers also discussed the need to find a political solution to the war in Yemen.

On Wednesday, the Houthis said that they carried out drone attack on Abha airport in Saudi Arabia.

Blinken and al Saud "discussed joint efforts to bolster Saudi defenses against attacks on the Kingdom," the State Department said in a statement.

U.S. President Joe Biden last week named veteran U.S. diplomat Tim Lenderking as a U.S. special envoy to Yemen in a bid to step up American diplomacy to end the war.

The new administration in Washington has also announced an end to its support for Saudi-led military operations in Yemen.

(With Reuters inputs)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud about diplomatic efforts to end the war in Yemen.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud about diplomatic efforts to end the war in Yemen. US State Department and Saudi state media said that the two ministers discussed the need ti find political solution to the war in Yemen. Saudi Arabia leads a coalition that intervened in Yemen 2015 and backed government forces against Houthi rebels. UN has called the subsequent war the largest humanitarian crisis in the world. Saudi state media and the state department said the two ministers also discussed the need to find a political solution to the war in Yemen. On Wednesday, the Houthis said that they carried out drone attack on Abha airport in Saudi Arabia. Blinken and al Saud "discussed joint efforts to bolster Saudi defenses against attacks on the Kingdom," the State Department said in a statement. U.S. President Joe Biden last week named veteran U.S. diplomat Tim Lenderking as a U.S. special envoy to Yemen in a bid to step up American diplomacy to end the war. The new administration in Washington has also announced an end to its support for Saudi-led military operations in Yemen. (With Reuters inputs)

Blinken speaks with Saudi foreign minister on Yemen war

A civilian plane was set on fire during an attack by Houthi rebels on an airport in Saudi Arabia. The information was released by Saudi-led coalition battling the rebels. The airport is located in southern part of the country.

"A cowardly terrorist attack by the Huthi militia on Abha international airport... A civilian plane within the airport grounds was exposed to a fire which was brought under control," state-run Al-Ekhbariya television cited the coalition as saying.

The attack has taken place at Abha International Airport. Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for the attack.

State media said that that the fire was brought under control and that there were no casualties.

The Saudi-led military alliance intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from power in the capital, Sanaa.

The conflict, largely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran, has been in a military stalemate for years.

The Houthis hold northern Yemen, from where they have often launched missiles and drones towards Saudi cities. The coalition has in the past responded with air strikes on Houthi military sites.

(With agency inputs, more details awaited)

A civilian plane was set on fire during an attack by Houthi rebels on an airport in Saudi Arabia. The information was released by Saudi-led coalition battling the rebels.

A civilian plane was set on fire during an attack by Houthi rebels on an airport in Saudi Arabia. The information was released by Saudi-led coalition battling the rebels. The airport is located in southern part of the country. "A cowardly terrorist attack by the Huthi militia on Abha international airport... A civilian plane within the airport grounds was exposed to a fire which was brought under control," state-run Al-Ekhbariya television cited the coalition as saying. The attack has taken place at Abha International Airport. Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for the attack. State media said that that the fire was brought under control and that there were no casualties. The Saudi-led military alliance intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from power in the capital, Sanaa. The conflict, largely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran, has been in a military stalemate for years. The Houthis hold northern Yemen, from where they have often launched missiles and drones towards Saudi cities. The coalition has in the past responded with air strikes on Houthi military sites. (With agency inputs, more details awaited)

Saudi Arabia: Passenger plane catches fire during Houthi rebel attack on airport

The United States intends to revoke terrorist designation of Houthis in Yemen. The decision is being taken due to humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Houthis in Yemen were declared as terrorists in a last-minute decision taken by former US President Donald Trump's administration. The latest decision by the US has come almost immediately after US President Joe Biden said that US was ending support to Saudi Arabia-led military campaign in Yemen.

“Our action is due entirely to the humanitarian consequences of this last-minute designation from the prior administration, which the United Nations and humanitarian organizations have since made clear would accelerate the world’s worst humanitarian crisis,” the official said. The official was quoted by Reuters.

The United Nations describes Yemen as the world’s biggest humanitarian crisis, with 80% of its people in need.

Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo blacklisted the Houthis on Jan. 19 - a day before Biden took office.

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The Trump administration exempted aid groups, the United Nations, the Red Cross and the export of agricultural commodities, medicine and medical devices from its designation. But U.N. officials and relief groups said the carve-outs were not enough and called for the decision to be revoked.

The crisis in Yemen is largely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran

The official quoted by Reuters said that though the terrorist designation of Houthis was being removed, the decision did not mean that US does not oppose their “reprehensible conduct.”

(With Reuters inputs)

The United States intends to revoke terrorist designation of Houthis in Yemen. The decision is being taken due to humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Houthis in Yemen were declared as terrorists in a last-minute decision taken by former US President Donald Trump's administration.

The United States intends to revoke terrorist designation of Houthis in Yemen. The decision is being taken due to humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Houthis in Yemen were declared as terrorists in a last-minute decision taken by former US President Donald Trump's administration. The latest decision by the US has come almost immediately after US President Joe Biden said that US was ending support to Saudi Arabia-led military campaign in Yemen. “Our action is due entirely to the humanitarian consequences of this last-minute designation from the prior administration, which the United Nations and humanitarian organizations have since made clear would accelerate the world’s worst humanitarian crisis,” the official said. The official was quoted by Reuters. The United Nations describes Yemen as the world’s biggest humanitarian crisis, with 80% of its people in need. Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo blacklisted the Houthis on Jan. 19 - a day before Biden took office. Also Read | Donald Trump writes 'who cares' as he resigns from Screen Actors Guild after facing expulsion notice The Trump administration exempted aid groups, the United Nations, the Red Cross and the export of agricultural commodities, medicine and medical devices from its designation. But U.N. officials and relief groups said the carve-outs were not enough and called for the decision to be revoked. The crisis in Yemen is largely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran The official quoted by Reuters said that though the terrorist designation of Houthis was being removed, the decision did not mean that US does not oppose their “reprehensible conduct.” (With Reuters inputs)

Yemen: US to revoke terrorist designation of Houthis

Yemen's Huthi rebels on Saturday called the US move to delist the group as a terrorist organisation an "advanced step towards peace".

A US State Department spokesperson said Friday they had "formally notified Congress" of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's intent to revoke the terrorist designation announced in the final days of the Trump administration.

The decision removes a block humanitarian groups said jeopardised crucial aid.

Abdulelah Hajar, advisor to the head of the supreme political council, a Huthi executive body, told AFP that "cancelling the designation is an advanced step towards peace".

The announcement came a day after President Joe Biden announced an end to US support for Saudi-led offensive operations in Yemen.

Hajar said the new US administration had "got off to a good start", but warned the credibility of the steps "will not be achieved unless they are proven on the ground and felt by the Yemeni people -- by lifting the siege and stopping the war".

He also said the newly appointed US special envoy to Yemen, Timothy Lenderking, must "meet all parties", warning that if the Huthis are excluded, "there will be no step towards peace".

The grinding six-year war in Yemen has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions, triggering what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian disaster.

Aid groups say they have no choice but to deal with the Huthis, who are the de facto government in much of Yemen, and that the terrorist designation would put them at risk of prosecution in the United States.

The US state department spokesperson said Friday the decision to remove the designation "has nothing to do with our view of the Huthis and their reprehensible conduct, including attacks against civilians and the kidnapping of American citizens".&nbsp;

"Our action is due entirely to the humanitarian consequences of this last-minute designation from the prior administration."

In ending support for the Saudi-led offensive in Yemen, where 80 percent of the population has been reduced to surviving on aid, Biden was fulfilling a campaign promise to activists who have sounded the alarm over the Yemeni people's suffering.

The state department spokesperson added the US remained committed to helping Saudi Arabia defend its territory against attacks by the rebels.

The kingdom has led a military intervention against the Huthis since 2015.

Yemen's Huthi rebels on Saturday called the US move to delist the group as a terrorist organisation an "advanced step towards peace". A US State Department spokesperson said Friday they had "formally notified Congress" of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's intent to revoke the terrorist designation announced in the final days of the Trump administration.

Yemen's Huthi rebels on Saturday called the US move to delist the group as a terrorist organisation an "advanced step towards peace". A US State Department spokesperson said Friday they had "formally notified Congress" of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's intent to revoke the terrorist designation announced in the final days of the Trump administration. The decision removes a block humanitarian groups said jeopardised crucial aid. Abdulelah Hajar, advisor to the head of the supreme political council, a Huthi executive body, told AFP that "cancelling the designation is an advanced step towards peace". The announcement came a day after President Joe Biden announced an end to US support for Saudi-led offensive operations in Yemen. Hajar said the new US administration had "got off to a good start", but warned the credibility of the steps "will not be achieved unless they are proven on the ground and felt by the Yemeni people -- by lifting the siege and stopping the war". He also said the newly appointed US special envoy to Yemen, Timothy Lenderking, must "meet all parties", warning that if the Huthis are excluded, "there will be no step towards peace". The grinding six-year war in Yemen has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions, triggering what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian disaster. Aid groups say they have no choice but to deal with the Huthis, who are the de facto government in much of Yemen, and that the terrorist designation would put them at risk of prosecution in the United States. The US state department spokesperson said Friday the decision to remove the designation "has nothing to do with our view of the Huthis and their reprehensible conduct, including attacks against civilians and the kidnapping of American citizens". "Our action is due entirely to the humanitarian consequences of this last-minute designation from the prior administration." In ending support for the Saudi-led offensive in Yemen, where 80 percent of the population has been reduced to surviving on aid, Biden was fulfilling a campaign promise to activists who have sounded the alarm over the Yemeni people's suffering. The state department spokesperson added the US remained committed to helping Saudi Arabia defend its territory against attacks by the rebels. The kingdom has led a military intervention against the Huthis since 2015.

Yemen Houthis say end of terror designation a 'step towards peace'

Yemen's warring factions declared their readiness to act after US President Joe Biden called for renewed efforts to end their conflict, but experts said on Friday that a real solution appears out of reach.&nbsp;

The grinding six-year war in Yemen has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions, triggering what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian disaster.&nbsp;

In his first major foreign policy speech since replacing Donald Trump last month, Biden appointed an envoy to push for peace and said the US would end all support for Saudi Arabia's war in Yemen.&nbsp;

"This war has to end," Biden said.&nbsp;

"To underscore our commitment, we are ending all American support for offensive operations in the war in Yemen, including relevant arm sales."&nbsp;

Yemen's internationally recognised government, which is backed by a Saudi-led military coalition, welcomed his remarks and stressed the "importance of supporting diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis".&nbsp;

It hailed Timothy Lenderking's appointment as US envoy, describing it as "another important step" taken by the US to "end the war caused by the Iran-backed Huthis".&nbsp;

The Huthi rebels, who control much of the country, including the capital Sanaa, said they supported the approach of the new US administration.&nbsp;

"The real proof to achieve peace in Yemen is an end to the aggression and a lifting of the blockade," Huthi spokesman Mohamed Abdel Salam in a tweet.&nbsp;

"Yemen's missiles are for the defence of Yemen and stopping them comes when an end to the aggression and a lifting of the blockade are totally achieved," he added.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia reacted by reasserting its commitment to a political solution in Yemen.&nbsp;

The kingdom also welcomed Biden's "commitment to cooperate with the kingdom to defend its sovereignty and counter threats against it," according to the official Saudi Press Agency.&nbsp;

But like the Yemeni government, it did not address Biden's decision to end military support to the war in Yemen.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Yemen's warring factions declared their readiness to act after US President Joe Biden called for renewed efforts to end their conflict, but experts said on Friday that a real solution appears out of reach.

Yemen's warring factions declared their readiness to act after US President Joe Biden called for renewed efforts to end their conflict, but experts said on Friday that a real solution appears out of reach. The grinding six-year war in Yemen has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions, triggering what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian disaster. In his first major foreign policy speech since replacing Donald Trump last month, Biden appointed an envoy to push for peace and said the US would end all support for Saudi Arabia's war in Yemen. "This war has to end," Biden said. "To underscore our commitment, we are ending all American support for offensive operations in the war in Yemen, including relevant arm sales." Yemen's internationally recognised government, which is backed by a Saudi-led military coalition, welcomed his remarks and stressed the "importance of supporting diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis". It hailed Timothy Lenderking's appointment as US envoy, describing it as "another important step" taken by the US to "end the war caused by the Iran-backed Huthis". The Huthi rebels, who control much of the country, including the capital Sanaa, said they supported the approach of the new US administration. "The real proof to achieve peace in Yemen is an end to the aggression and a lifting of the blockade," Huthi spokesman Mohamed Abdel Salam in a tweet. "Yemen's missiles are for the defence of Yemen and stopping them comes when an end to the aggression and a lifting of the blockade are totally achieved," he added. Saudi Arabia reacted by reasserting its commitment to a political solution in Yemen. The kingdom also welcomed Biden's "commitment to cooperate with the kingdom to defend its sovereignty and counter threats against it," according to the official Saudi Press Agency. But like the Yemeni government, it did not address Biden's decision to end military support to the war in Yemen.

Warring factions welcome Biden peace push in Yemen

He said the US would continue to provide defensive support to Saudi Arabia against missile and drone attacks from Iranian-backed forces.

Joe Biden announces end to U.S. support for Saudi-led offensive in Yemen

It has been 10 years since the Arab Spring broke out in the middle east, but in the troubled nation of Yemen despite the fact that decade has gone by there is a little hope of peace. WION brings you a report.

Decade after Arab spring, Yemen has little hope left

In the final days of the presidency, the Trump administration has designated Yemen's Houthi rebels as a terrorist organization. This move has faced widespread backlash, with international bodies saying that it could lead to a famine in Yemen. On the West Asia Post this week, Ghadi Francis tells you what this move means for the war-torn nation. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post | US puts Houthis on terror list| What does this mean for Yemen

Joe Biden's nominee for National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has slammed Donald Trump for designating Yemen Houthi rebels as terrorists.

Jake Sullivan slams Trump's move on Yemen Houthi rebels

India on Thursday highlighted the plight of Yemenis at the United Nations Security Council(UNSC) especially children impacted by the ongoing famine in the west Asian nation.

India's envoy to the United Nations, TS Tirumurti said, "The plight of millions of Yemenis facing, inter alia, severe food insecurity, as well as children suffering malnourishment, are immediate needs which should 
move the conscience of the world community."

"India will continue to provide medical and other assistance to those affected by the conflict," Tirumurti added.

Yemen is undergoing the worst famine, termed as by UNICEF as the largest humanitarian crisis in the world. According to the UN body with more than 24 million people some 80 per cent of the population require humanitarian assistance which includes more than 12 million children.

The Indian envoy said, "It is time we put the people of Yemen at the centre of our efforts in the midst of all other developments". He called on for the implementation of the Stockholm agreement that calls for Yemeni govenment and Houthi rebels to address the humanitarian situation as "there are predictions of a widespread famine in Yemen in 2021."

The country has seen a number of attacks, the latest being at the Aden airport when a plane carrying newly formed Yemeni government landed in the city as 28 people were killed which included members of the Red Cross.&nbsp;

The Indian envoy said that these "recurring incidents highlight the safety and security issues faced by humanitarian workers in Yemen" while commending the "valiant efforts of all humanitarian workers to ensure the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Yemeni people in need, despite the daunting challenges they face."

During the UNSC meeting on Yemen, India welcomed the recent political developments in the country, including the formation of a new cabinet, security redeployments in southern Yemen which it said: "has triggered a wave of hope".

New Delhi appreciated the "role played by Saudi Arabia and others in facilitating these developments" and acknowledged the "key role of a unified GCC in promoting peace, stability and prosperity in Yemen". Recently Qatar and other GCC countries agreed to bury the hatchet with the signing of the Al Ula declaration.

India has had close ties with Yemen, with around 300,000 Indians of Yemeni origin living in India. Before the crisis began, a large number of Indians used to work in the country. TS Tirumurti pointed out, "strong connect with Yemen, makes the instability, violence and suffering in Yemen painful for India and all Indians."

India on Thursday highlighted the plight of Yemenis at the United Nations Security Council(UNSC) especially children impacted by the ongoing famine in the west Asian nation.

India on Thursday highlighted the plight of Yemenis at the United Nations Security Council(UNSC) especially children impacted by the ongoing famine in the west Asian nation. India's envoy to the United Nations, TS Tirumurti said, "The plight of millions of Yemenis facing, inter alia, severe food insecurity, as well as children suffering malnourishment, are immediate needs which should move the conscience of the world community." "India will continue to provide medical and other assistance to those affected by the conflict," Tirumurti added. Yemen is undergoing the worst famine, termed as by UNICEF as the largest humanitarian crisis in the world. According to the UN body with more than 24 million people some 80 per cent of the population require humanitarian assistance which includes more than 12 million children. The Indian envoy said, "It is time we put the people of Yemen at the centre of our efforts in the midst of all other developments". He called on for the implementation of the Stockholm agreement that calls for Yemeni govenment and Houthi rebels to address the humanitarian situation as "there are predictions of a widespread famine in Yemen in 2021." The country has seen a number of attacks, the latest being at the Aden airport when a plane carrying newly formed Yemeni government landed in the city as 28 people were killed which included members of the Red Cross. The Indian envoy said that these "recurring incidents highlight the safety and security issues faced by humanitarian workers in Yemen" while commending the "valiant efforts of all humanitarian workers to ensure the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Yemeni people in need, despite the daunting challenges they face." During the UNSC meeting on Yemen, India welcomed the recent political developments in the country, including the formation of a new cabinet, security redeployments in southern Yemen which it said: "has triggered a wave of hope". New Delhi appreciated the "role played by Saudi Arabia and others in facilitating these developments" and acknowledged the "key role of a unified GCC in promoting peace, stability and prosperity in Yemen". Recently Qatar and other GCC countries agreed to bury the hatchet with the signing of the Al Ula declaration. India has had close ties with Yemen, with around 300,000 Indians of Yemeni origin living in India. Before the crisis began, a large number of Indians used to work in the country. TS Tirumurti pointed out, "strong connect with Yemen, makes the instability, violence and suffering in Yemen painful for India and all Indians."

Children suffering in Yemen should move conscience of the world, says India at UNSC

Three top United Nations officials all called on the United States on Thursday to revoke its decision to designate Yemen's Houthis a foreign terrorist organization, warning it would push the country into a large-scale famine and chill peace efforts.

Yemen: Top United Nations officials urge US to revoke blacklisting of Houthis

UN urge US to revoke blacklisting of Yemen's Houthis

The European Union has censured a US decision to label Yemen's Houthis as terrorists. US State Secretary Mike Pompeo had made this announcement on Sunday.

EU slams US for labelling Yemen's Houthis as terrorists

The United States plans to designate Yemen`s Houthi movement as a foreign terrorist organization, three sources familiar with the matter said, a move that diplomats and aid groups worry could threaten peace talks and complicate efforts to combat the world`s largest humanitarian crisis.

The decision to blacklist the Iran-aligned group, which could be announced as soon as Monday according to two of the sources, comes as the administration of President-elect Joe Biden prepares to take over from the Trump administration on Jan. 20.

The Trump administration has been piling on sanctions related to Iran in recent weeks, prompting some Biden allies and outside analysts to conclude that Trump aides are seeking to make it harder for the incoming administration to re-engage with Iran and rejoin an international nuclear agreement.

The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

One person familiar with the matter said the Trump administration had worked out certain "allowances" to permit continued delivery of humanitarian supplies to Yemen and insisted that U.S. sanctions rules in most cases leave room for aid organizations to work. The source declined to elaborate.

The designation has been the subject of weeks of fierce debate within the Trump administration and internal disagreements over how to carve out exceptions for aid shipments held up a final decision on the blacklisting, which has been in the works for weeks, multiple sources have said.

A Saudi Arabia-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015, backing government forces fighting the Houthi group. U.N. officials are trying to revive peace talks to end the war as the country`s suffering is also worsened by an economic and currency collapse and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The United Nations describes Yemen as the world`s largest humanitarian crisis, with 80% of the people in need of help. Top U.N. officials have warned that millions of people are facing famine and more money is needed to deliver aid.

The Houthi group, also known as Ansar Allah, is the de facto authority in northern Yemen and aid agencies have to work with it to deliver assistance. Aid workers and supplies also come in through Houthi-controlled Sanaa airport and Hodeidah port.

"This serves no interest at all," Ryan Crocker, a retired U.S. ambassador who served in the Middle East, said of the designation. "Are there elements among the Houthis who have been involved in terrorist acts? Sure. Just as with other groups in the Middle East."

"The Houthis are an integral part of Yemeni society. They always have been. This is making a strategic enemy out of a local force that has been part of Yemen for generations. They are not Iranian pawns."

In November U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Yemen was in "imminent danger of the worst famine the world has seen for decades," warning against any unilateral moves as the United States threatened to blacklist the Houthis.

A spokesman for Guterres declined to comment on Sunday.

Iran`s mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The U.S. Treasury Department has the power to carve out exceptions by issuing special licenses to humanitarian groups to ship food and medical supplies to heavily sanctioned countries, as it has done with Iran and Venezuela.

But international relief officials have said such measures have often failed to unblock the flow of aid because banks and insurance companies are worried about running afoul of U.S. sanctions, and that this could also be the case with Yemen.

The United States plans to designate Yemen`s Houthi movement as a foreign terrorist organization, three sources familiar with the matter said, a move that diplomats and aid groups worry could threaten peace talks and complicate efforts to combat the world`s largest humanitarian crisis.

The United States plans to designate Yemen`s Houthi movement as a foreign terrorist organization, three sources familiar with the matter said, a move that diplomats and aid groups worry could threaten peace talks and complicate efforts to combat the world`s largest humanitarian crisis. The decision to blacklist the Iran-aligned group, which could be announced as soon as Monday according to two of the sources, comes as the administration of President-elect Joe Biden prepares to take over from the Trump administration on Jan. 20. The Trump administration has been piling on sanctions related to Iran in recent weeks, prompting some Biden allies and outside analysts to conclude that Trump aides are seeking to make it harder for the incoming administration to re-engage with Iran and rejoin an international nuclear agreement. The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. One person familiar with the matter said the Trump administration had worked out certain "allowances" to permit continued delivery of humanitarian supplies to Yemen and insisted that U.S. sanctions rules in most cases leave room for aid organizations to work. The source declined to elaborate. The designation has been the subject of weeks of fierce debate within the Trump administration and internal disagreements over how to carve out exceptions for aid shipments held up a final decision on the blacklisting, which has been in the works for weeks, multiple sources have said. A Saudi Arabia-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015, backing government forces fighting the Houthi group. U.N. officials are trying to revive peace talks to end the war as the country`s suffering is also worsened by an economic and currency collapse and the COVID-19 pandemic. The United Nations describes Yemen as the world`s largest humanitarian crisis, with 80% of the people in need of help. Top U.N. officials have warned that millions of people are facing famine and more money is needed to deliver aid. The Houthi group, also known as Ansar Allah, is the de facto authority in northern Yemen and aid agencies have to work with it to deliver assistance. Aid workers and supplies also come in through Houthi-controlled Sanaa airport and Hodeidah port. "This serves no interest at all," Ryan Crocker, a retired U.S. ambassador who served in the Middle East, said of the designation. "Are there elements among the Houthis who have been involved in terrorist acts? Sure. Just as with other groups in the Middle East." "The Houthis are an integral part of Yemeni society. They always have been. This is making a strategic enemy out of a local force that has been part of Yemen for generations. They are not Iranian pawns." In November U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Yemen was in "imminent danger of the worst famine the world has seen for decades," warning against any unilateral moves as the United States threatened to blacklist the Houthis. A spokesman for Guterres declined to comment on Sunday. Iran`s mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The U.S. Treasury Department has the power to carve out exceptions by issuing special licenses to humanitarian groups to ship food and medical supplies to heavily sanctioned countries, as it has done with Iran and Venezuela. But international relief officials have said such measures have often failed to unblock the flow of aid because banks and insurance companies are worried about running afoul of U.S. sanctions, and that this could also be the case with Yemen.

US to designate Yemen's Houthi movement as foreign terror group as soon as Monday

Five women were killed in war-torn Yemen when a projectile exploded at a wedding held on New Year's Day in the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, officials said Saturday.

The government and Huthi rebel forces blamed each other for the Friday night bombing of the hall near Hodeida's airport, a frontline between the warring sides on the edge of the Huthi-held town.&nbsp;

It came just two days after at least 26 people were killed in blasts that rocked the airport of the southern city of Aden as government ministers got off a plane.

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General Sadek Douid, the government representative in a UN-sponsored joint commission overseeing a truce, condemned the Hodeida blast, which also left seven wounded, as "an odious crime committed by the Huthis against civilians".

Hodeida's Huthi-appointed governor, Mohammed Ayache, said on Al-Masirah television, which is run by the Shiite Muslim rebels, that "the forces of aggression never hesitate to blame others for their crimes".

Saudi-backed government forces launched an offensive in June 2018 to retake Hodeida, the main entry point for humanitarian aid to poverty-stricken Yemen.

But a ceasefire has been partially observed since December of the same year.

Five women were killed in war-torn Yemen when a projectile exploded at a wedding held on New Year's Day in the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, officials said Saturday.

Five women were killed in war-torn Yemen when a projectile exploded at a wedding held on New Year's Day in the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, officials said Saturday. The government and Huthi rebel forces blamed each other for the Friday night bombing of the hall near Hodeida's airport, a frontline between the warring sides on the edge of the Huthi-held town. It came just two days after at least 26 people were killed in blasts that rocked the airport of the southern city of Aden as government ministers got off a plane. WATCH| × General Sadek Douid, the government representative in a UN-sponsored joint commission overseeing a truce, condemned the Hodeida blast, which also left seven wounded, as "an odious crime committed by the Huthis against civilians". Hodeida's Huthi-appointed governor, Mohammed Ayache, said on Al-Masirah television, which is run by the Shiite Muslim rebels, that "the forces of aggression never hesitate to blame others for their crimes". Saudi-backed government forces launched an offensive in June 2018 to retake Hodeida, the main entry point for humanitarian aid to poverty-stricken Yemen. But a ceasefire has been partially observed since December of the same year.

Five women killed as blast hits Yemen wedding hall

Explosion rocks Yemen's Aden airport. According to reports at least 2 explosion and gunfire heard as cabinet members will leaving the aircraft. At least 26 people dead and dozens injured in the attack.

Blasts at Yemen airport as new unity government arrived

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