UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron will begin his fourth trip to the Middle East since taking office with talks in Oman, including Muscat's role in brokering a peace deal in Yemen, the Guardian reported.
The Foreign Office said he would focus on the Houthis' ongoing attacks on merchant shipping in the Red Sea, as well as US and UK warships trying to provide protection.
There are already signs that violence in Yemen is spreading as forces backing the UN-recognized government in Aden clash with Houthi fighters. The violence and the impending designation of the Houthis as a terrorist group by the United States are likely to intensify the efforts of humanitarian organizations to ensure that humanitarian goods reach Yemen.
During his visit, the former UK prime minister will also examine whether a breakthrough in the protracted truce between Israel and Hamas is imminent, leading to a large-scale release of hostages and a significant increase in aid.
Despite the UN resolution and the International Court of Justice order demanding an immediate increase in aid, UN agencies have reported no improved cooperation from Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly stated, including after the International Court of Justice ruling, that only a minimal amount of aid is needed to enter Gaza.
BGNES recalls that Cameron's last regional visit was to Israel, the Palestinian Authority, Turkey and Qatar. During his latest trip, he will also reiterate to regional leaders the UK's call for an immediate pause in the conflict in Gaza to allow for significantly more aid and the withdrawal of hostages, followed by progress towards a sustainable ceasefire . /BGNES
