UN Calls for Humanitarian Pause in Yemen as Millions Face Famine Threat

Local Editor

The United Nations [UN] called on Wednesday for an immediate and unconditional humanitarian pause across Yemen, urging to allow aid agencies "immediate and unimpeded" access to people in need.

Saudi Arabia has imposed a near total blockade on a country heavily reliant on imports.

The call came from UN humanitarian affairs chief, Stephen O’Brien, who said that millions of Yemenis face famine because food aid is not reaching them.

 


O’Brien called for an immediate and unconditional humanitarian pause across the country.

 

 


The UN estimates that as many as 21 million people-80 per cent of the population-need assistance.

 

 


Recent reports of attacks, including on markets, medical facilities and sites sheltering refugees, give an indication of what he called the "clear disregard for human lives" in the country, the UN said.

 

According to UN records, Saudi attacks have killed more than 2,600 people and injured at least 11,000 in Yemen.

Countless others are dying because hospitals are closing down due to fuel shortages, it added.

A Saudi-led coalition, backed by the United States, has been carrying out airstrikes against Yemen since March. The airstrikes have not been authorized by the UN.

According to UN records, the Saudi attacks have killed more than 2,600 people and injured at least 11,000 since the military aggression began against Yemen on March 26.

 

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