The war in Yemen is driving the largest humanitarian crisis in the world, supported by arms from the United States. Fourteen million people—half Yemen's population—are on the brink of starvation. 

A new poll commissioned by the International Rescue Committee (IRC) shows that Democrats and Republicans are united in their desire to end U.S. support to fueling conflict and humanitarian catastrophe. Learn more and take action.

Update: On December 13, 2018, the U.S. Senate voted to invoke the War Powers Resolution to end U.S. support to the Saudi- and Emirati-led coalition in the war in Yemen. This historic vote came a day after peace talks in Sweden between Yemen’s warring parties, a testament to mounting international pressure for an end to the war and the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

Read the IRC's statement.
 

What is happening in Yemen?

In 2015, Saudi Arabia and its allies began a military intervention in Yemen as part of an effort to unseat Houthi forces. Despite calls from around the world for a ceasefire, the coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates continues its assault with weapons and other military support purchased from the U.S.

Now, growing hostilities in the port city of Hodeidah threaten to cut off a lifeline for Yemenis in desperate need of food and medicine. Schools, homes, hospitals and other civilian targets have been struck, and across the country 85% of Yemenis have been left without basic health care.

“The people of Yemen urgently need an end to the fighting—for humanitarian aid to flow, for the economy to revitalize, and for the political process to take hold,” said IRC president and CEO David Miliband.

What do Americans think?

Of those expressing an opinon, the majority of Americans (75%) are opposed to U.S. weapons sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, according to a new YouGov survey commissioned by the IRC. The survey results also reveal a clear bipartisan consensus on ending U.S. military support: 82% of respondents agree Congress must vote to end or decrease arms sales, with 98% of liberals and 63% of conservatives in agreement.

“Americans of all political stripes reject the U.S. policy of fueling the war in Yemen,” said Miliband. “They agree that by continuing to provide military and diplomatic support for one side of the conflict, the U.S. is fueling a crisis that has severe consequences for millions of civilians.”

What can I do to help end the violence?

The U.S. has called for a ceasefire, but without also halting U.S. military support to the Saudi and Emirati-led coalition, this call for an end to violence is likely to go unheeded. Congress is considering legislation on U.S. involvement in the war in Yemen. It is critical that the opposition of Americans be heard. 

Call your Member of Congress today to insist the U.S. end its military support and fully back a much-needed ceasefire.

How can I help Yemenis in need?

The IRC is supporting vulnerable Yemenis through primary health care, nutrition, water and sanitation services, as well as cash support to help them access food and other essentials for their families.

You can help us provide lifesaving assistance and emergency aid in Yemen and worldwide: Donate now.