Reports say that the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen has ordered the end of its bombardment of Hodeidah. This follows an intensification of the bombing over recent days.
The humanitarian catastrophe in Yemen is already the worst in the world. Tens of thousands of people have been killed as a result of the bombardment and the resulting crisis.
The UN and major aide agencies have warned that without action Yemen could face the worst famine in the world for 100 years.
UK government statistics show that since the bombing of Yemen began in 2015, the UK has licensed £4.7 billion worth of arms to Saudi Arabia, including:
- £2.7 billion worth of ML10 licences (Aircraft, helicopters, drones)
- £1.9 billion worth of ML4 licences (Grenades, bombs, missiles, countermeasures)
Andrew Smith of Campaign Against Arms Trade said:
This announcement is welcome, but it should never have been allowed to reach this point. The humanitarian crisis in Yemen is already the worst in the world: thousands of people have been killed and infrastructure has been destroyed across the country.
It is vital that this is followed by a national ceasefire, a massive aid effort, and the full reopening of Yemen’s ports and air space. Otherwise thousands will continue to starve to death.
After almost four years of war, the need for a political solution is greater than ever. Arms dealing governments like the UK must work towards peace. That doesn’t just mean calling for a ceasefire, it also means ending the arms sales and political support that have fuelled this terrible war.
ENDS
For further information, please contact Andrew at media(at)caat·org·uk or call 020 7281 0297.
