Fighting in Yemen Leaves Hundreds of Thousands Displaced, Cuts Off Aid

Fighting in Yemen Leaves Hundreds of Thousands Displaced, Cuts Off Aid
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More than 280,000 people have been displaced by renewed fighting in Yemen, while insecurity is preventing many vulnerable communities from reaching lifesaving assistance, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) has warned.

UNHCR said more than 65,000 refugees and asylum seekers are facing worsening conditions amid escalating violence, economic collapse and severe restrictions on humanitarian access. In Kharaz refugee camp in Lahj, which hosts around 9,500 refugees from Somalia and Ethiopia, nearby shelling has disrupted services and restricted movement. Schools and several other essential services have been suspended, while rising food and fuel prices are deepening hardship.

Although aid partners continue to provide food, healthcare and water when access permits, many displaced people remain beyond the reach of relief teams. UNHCR said its Yemen appeal is only 19 per cent funded.

The agency has arranged transport for 11 containers carrying 3,000 emergency relief kits, expected to assist more than 20,000 people. However, worsening security conditions and logistical difficulties continue to threaten delivery efforts.