Since her appointment as the UK ambassador to Yemen in September 2023, Abda Sharif has focused on understanding the complexities of Yemen’s crisis through direct engagement, steering clear of media appearances. In her first comprehensive interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Sharif revealed plans for an international conference in New York at the start of 2025, aimed at rallying political and economic support for Yemen’s government and institutions.

Sharif emphasized the UK’s commitment to its role as the primary custodian of Yemen’s file in the UN Security Council, highlighting its efforts to bring stability to the war-torn nation. She expressed concern over the volatile political situation in Yemen, attributing it to the Houthis’ “reckless” attacks on Israel, which she said jeopardize peace efforts and increase regional tensions.

Economic Support and Currency Stabilization
Addressing the ongoing international efforts to unify Yemen’s currency, Sharif noted that the UN is leading critical discussions with Yemeni stakeholders. She underlined that a stable currency would bring price stability and enable Yemeni families to plan for the future, pointing out that the UK has supported the Yemeni government in accessing funds frozen in British banks to alleviate the economic crisis.

Strengthening Maritime Security and the Coast Guard
Sharif announced that the Yemeni Coast Guard presented a strategic plan for rebuilding its capabilities at a meeting in New York. The UK is contributing to these efforts by providing training vessels and equipment as part of a broader international partnership to enhance maritime security and combat smuggling.

Concerns Over Houthi Escalations
The ambassador raised alarm over Houthi attacks targeting international maritime shipping, describing them as a threat to regional stability and a source of additional suffering for the Yemeni people. She also called for the immediate release of UN staff detained in Houthi-controlled areas, stressing that their detention undermines humanitarian efforts.

Strong UK-Saudi Cooperation
Sharif lauded the enduring partnership between the UK and Saudi Arabia, highlighting regular consultations on Yemen and joint humanitarian projects as part of their collaborative efforts to support the Yemeni people.

Hopes for 2025
Concluding her remarks, Sharif expressed hope that 2025 would bring sustainable peace to Yemen. She emphasized the importance of a political settlement, drawing lessons from the Syrian crisis to avoid repeating similar mistakes in Yemen.

Conclusion
These statements come at a time when Yemen is grappling with deepening economic and humanitarian challenges, underscoring the crucial need for sustained international support and peacebuilding efforts.