Local Editor
In its latest report the Yemen Humanitarian Country Team called on all parties in the Yemeni conflict “to ensure the continued functioning of Al Hodeidah Port.”
“Al Hudaydah Port is the major lifeline for imports into Yemen. The country has historically been 80 to 90 per cent dependent on imported food, medicines and fuel- all vital for Yemen’s survival today. Close to 80 per cent of imported goods flowed through Al Hodeidah Port. Following airstrikes in August 2015, it now operates at reduced capacity,” the April 4 report read.
“Even at its current capacity, there is no viable substitute for Al Hodeidah Port- both in terms of location and infrastructure,” the report adds.
The UN and international aid agencies have warned Riyadh against launching a military campaign to capture the port, which is under the control of Yemeni forces. This as reports surfaced of Saudi-backed militants massing fighters around Hodeidah.
“Any alterations to the commercial and humanitarian imports coming through this port would have grave consequences on the country at a time when it faces a severe food, health, and nutrition crisis. Furthermore, the port is located in a densely populated urban center where thousands of people live and any military campaign in its vicinity, from the ground or air, would have devastating civilian consequences,” the report warns.
Source: News Agencies, Edited by Website Team
