The British Ambassador to Yemen, Abda Sharif, confirmed that the Houthis’ recent attacks on international shipping and their illegal seizure of the ship (MV GALAXY LEADER) undermine Yemen’s security and food security in Yemen.

Ambassador Sharif said that the continuing threats to international commercial shipping will eventually restrict the availability of food, because commercial shipping will not risk its ships and crews. Shipping insurance costs have begun to rise and will lead to higher food prices and increased humanitarian needs.

Ambassador Sharif renewed the United Kingdom’s commitment to protecting the safety of shipping in the region, and demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the ship (MV GALAXY LEADER) and its crew.

Ambassador Sharif also stressed that the decisive part of the journey towards peace is the Yemeni-Yemeni dialogue, and the Yemeni people must be able to determine the future of their nation.

Ambassador Sharif expressed her concern about the imposition of increasing restrictions such as Muharram in areas controlled by the Houthis, and the failure to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.