UK Offers Limited Military Support to Saudi Arabia Amid Yemen Conflict
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has agreed to provide limited military support to Saudi Arabia in its conflict against Yemen's Houthi rebels. The UK will offer air-to-air refueling of Saudi jets, which will be used for defensive purposes only.
The request for military aid was made by Saudi Arabia after recent weeks saw a resurgence in the conflict between the Houthis and Yemen's government, backed by Saudi Arabia.
Burnham said that the UK's decision to provide support is aimed at securing British interests and keeping oil pathways open. He noted that some 12 percent of global trade passes through the Bab al-Mandeb, a key shipping route controlled by the Houthis after they seized crucial ports and islands in Yemen.
The UK's involvement will be limited to supporting Saudi aircraft defending against drone and missile attacks, rather than participating in strikes against the Houthi rebels. The mission is expected to start soon and will involve one RAF Voyager refueling Saudi planes on 'defensive' missions.