British Economy Contracts by 0.1% in April Amid Global Tensions

London: British GDP contracted by 0.1% in April on a monthly basis, impacted by the repercussions of the US-Israeli aggression against Iran. According to Yemen News Agency, the UK's Office for National Statistics (ONS) stated that "GDP shrank by 0.1 percent in April, following growth of 0.3% in March 2026 and 0.4% in February 2026." The ONS data revealed that a 0.2% decline in the services sector activity was the primary factor of the contraction, while a 0.1% increase in construction output partially mitigated the impact. In contrast, the manufacturing sector recorded zero growth during the month. The ONS attributed part of this decline to the repercussions of the aggression against Iran, noting that the cancellation of several sporting events in the Middle East negatively affected the activity of British companies operating in this sector. Since the ceasefire came into effect on April 8, Washington and Tehran have been engaged in negotiations, mediated by Pakistan, to end the war that began on February 2 8.