Prime Minister: The worsening humanitarian crisis requires urgent international action commensurate with the challenges and risks of Houthi escalation.

Urgent International Action Needed Amid Escalating Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen

Prime Minister Dr. Sha’if Mohsen Al-Zandani emphasized that the rapid developments in Yemen, driven by the military escalation of the Houthi terrorist militia and increasing waves of displacement and humanitarian needs, place a heightened responsibility on the international community and the United Nations to act urgently. He called for enhanced humanitarian responses to ensure the protection of civilians and alleviate the suffering of those affected.

Meeting with UN Humanitarian Coordinator

This statement came during a meeting on Sunday in the temporary capital, Aden, with John Ging, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator. They discussed the latest updates on the humanitarian situation, the implications of the current escalation, priorities for relief intervention, and ways to strengthen partnership and coordination between the government and the UN to address existing challenges.

Shift Towards Sustainable Humanitarian Response

Dr. Al-Zandani highlighted the importance of transitioning from a reactive approach to a more effective and sustainable strategy. This strategy should focus on securing adequate funding, expediting the delivery of supplies, and enhancing sectors such as health, nutrition, protection, and shelter. He reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating the work of the UN and humanitarian organizations, ensuring suitable conditions for their operations.

Commitment to National Sovereignty

The Prime Minister reaffirmed that the state’s goal of asserting its authority over all national territory and ending the Iranian-backed Houthi coup remains steadfast. He stressed that this objective is not influenced by battlefield developments or challenges, regardless of their magnitude. The government, in coordination with the Presidential Leadership Council and military leadership, is working responsibly to address the current phase’s developments, maintain national front cohesion, and pave the way for the restoration of the capital, Sana’a, while ending the suffering of Yemenis.

UN’s Ongoing Support and Coordination Efforts

In response, the UN official reviewed the organization’s efforts in coordinating humanitarian responses in Yemen, outlining intervention priorities amid rising needs and displacement waves. He confirmed the UN’s continued support for Yemen, enhancing coordination with the government and humanitarian agencies, and working to mobilize additional funding and international contributions to meet urgent needs.

He praised the cooperation provided by the Yemeni government and its facilitation of UN organizations’ work, expressing appreciation for its efforts during these exceptional circumstances.

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