Statement on the U.S. Ending Support for the War in Yemen

The Biden Administration has announced an end to its support for offensive operations in Yemen, citing the tragic human consequences of the enduring conflict.  

Tjada D’Oyen McKenna, Mercy Corps CEO says:
“We applaud the Biden Administration's announcement ending U.S. participation in Yemen's war. We urge the United States to increase its diplomatic role in order to bring an end to the Yemen conflict. The U.S. must continue to support UN efforts to reach a ceasefire and use its influence to end this brutal conflict, which has created the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

“The appointment of Special Envoy Lenderking is a critical step forward. We hope he will redouble U.S. and international efforts to increase humanitarian access in order to reach millions of Yemenis in need of food, medical care, and other essential services. We call on all local authorities to eliminate impediments to humanitarian assistance. We also urge the Biden Administration to swiftly reverse the designation of Ansar Allah as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, as this designation will impede humanitarian operations, further exacerbating the already dire humanitarian crisis and devastating the economy.

“As many as 4 million people have fled their homes and are displaced across Yemen. According to the UN, an estimated 80% of the population in Yemen—24 million people—require some form of humanitarian or protection assistance, including 14.3 million who are in acute need.

“Mercy Corps has worked in Yemen since 2010, and remains committed to helping save lives and rebuilding livelihoods of all communities across the country. This year we have reached more than 1.1 million Yemenis with food, access to clean water and health care, and opportunities to improve their own ability to earn an income and support their families.”