Yemen’s UN envoy discusses the implications of Houthi escalation and the humanitarian situation in Taiz.

Yemen’s Permanent Representative Discusses Humanitarian Crisis at the UN

In New York City, Yemen’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Abdullah Al-Saadi, met with the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mohammed Yahya. They discussed the latest developments in Yemen’s humanitarian situation, the ongoing military escalation by the Houthi terrorist militias, and ways to enhance humanitarian response and mobilize resources to address the increasing needs of affected and displaced populations.

Impact of Houthi Attacks on Civilians

Ambassador Al-Saadi reviewed the consequences of recent Houthi attacks on civilians, civilian infrastructure, and state institutions, particularly in Taiz, Marib, and Aden. These attacks have resulted in numerous casualties and widespread displacement, exacerbating the suffering of displaced individuals and host communities. He highlighted the severe deterioration of humanitarian conditions in Taiz due to continued Houthi shelling, blockades, and road closures, which hinder the delivery of essential supplies. This situation has led to acute shortages of food, medicine, fuel, and water, threatening the continuity of health services.

Urgent Call for International Action

Al-Saadi called for urgent and coordinated international action to end the blockade, open roads, and ensure the free movement of civilians and humanitarian aid without obstacles. He emphasized the need to intensify efforts to mobilize humanitarian funding and engage with donor countries to meet the growing needs, especially in light of new waves of displacement. He urged prioritization of food, health, and shelter assistance, as well as addressing the risks of epidemic outbreaks and malnutrition in displacement sites.

Concerns Over Child Recruitment

The ambassador expressed concern regarding the ongoing recruitment of children by Houthi militias for combat roles. He urged the UN to intensify efforts to halt these violations, hold perpetrators accountable, rehabilitate affected children, and reintegrate them into society. He reiterated the Yemeni government’s condemnation of the arbitrary detention of UN staff and humanitarian workers by Houthi militias. Al-Saadi called for increased international efforts to secure their immediate and unconditional release and ensure the safety of humanitarian workers.

Commitment to Humanitarian Coordination

Ambassador Al-Saadi affirmed the Yemeni government’s readiness to provide necessary facilitation for UN organizations and humanitarian partners. He emphasized the importance of enhancing coordination with relevant national authorities to facilitate the delivery of aid to those in need and support essential services and early recovery efforts.

UN’s Support for Yemen

In response, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Mohammed Yahya reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to stand by the Yemeni people and continue providing humanitarian assistance despite challenges posed by funding shortages, security conditions, and restrictions on humanitarian access.

Yahya expressed the UN’s concern regarding the humanitarian implications of the recent escalation, particularly the displacement of over a quarter of a million people and the rapid deterioration of conditions in Taiz. He reiterated the call to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, respect international humanitarian law, and ensure safe and sustainable passage for humanitarian aid and access to essential services and commercial goods in Taiz.

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