Humanitarian Update
The USG for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Stephen O’Brien made a statement to the UNSC on Yemen indicating that it is more urgent than ever to address the human catastrophe in Yemen. Of note was the increase in the number of IDPs to 2.7 million people. The statement noted that UN agencies and partners are delivering aid under “extraordinarily difficult and dangerous” circumstances, and was highly critical of all parties to the conflict who have contributed to reduced humanitarian space and access.
Despite limited supplies entering besieged areas, this does little to address overall needs. The ICRC and WHO have been able to deliver medical supplies into Taiz, including to four hospitals. Ongoing and comprehensive access remains an issue for Taiz City and a permanent mechanism to ensure sustained and consistent access has yet to be established.