WASHINGTON — The United States is providing $89 million in humanitarian aid to help people affected by the conflict in Yemen, the Arab world's poorest country.

White House spokesman Ned Price says the money will help pay for food, clean drinking water and improved sanitation, among other necessities.

Nearly 13 million Yemenis are facing food shortages that are expected to worsen as the conflict continues.

Wednesday's announcement brings the total U.S. contribution for humanitarian needs in Yemen to $170 million for the budget year ending Sept. 30.

Yemen's conflict pits various forces against the Houthi rebels, who are allied with security forces loyal to former President Ali Abdullah Saleh (AH'-lee ahb-DUH'-luh sah-LEH').

Thousands have been killed, leaving the country in the throes of a humanitarian crisis and on the brink of famine.