Local Editor
The International Committee of the Red Cross’s (ICRC) president stated that “the pain of conflict permeates deep into communities”.
In his address during a high-Level Event on the Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen at the United Nations General Assembly’s 72nd session, Peter Maurer, said “For many Yemenis, a normal, dignified life is impossible. Electricity and water supplies have been damaged. Hospitals have been attacked. … People struggle to survive against poverty aggravated by war and against death from treatable chronic diseases.”
Maurer also spoke about a deadly cholera outbreak threatening the lives of more than half a million people, stating that “the latest figures stand at 700,000 suspected cases this morning. So it's by the largest numbers that have been reported since numbers have been recorded. The import restrictions and warfare in frequent violation of international humanitarian law is leading to hyper-fragility for as many as 20 million people.”
The ICRC revealed that it has doubled its budget this year to around 100 million dollars.
The ICRC makes four recommendations.
First, a political solution is needed. Without doubt, this is the number one priority, as others have said. Pending an comprehensive political solution we urgently need agreements on larger areas of tranquility for civilians. A war, which is running out of military targets must not continue.
Second, while conflict continues, the parties must abide by international humanitarian law, including the rules governing the conduct of hostilities and the treatment of detainees. Respect and protect civilians and civilian objects. Ensure steadfast adherence to the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution. Adapt these principles to the predominantly urban contexts of vulnerability. Spare Yemen's essential services for now and for the future. My request to those who are involved either directly or indirectly – by fighting alongside the belligerents, or by transferring weapons or in any other way supporting them – is to bring pressure onto the parties to abide by humanitarian law.
Third, if the international community is to respond meaningfully to the crisis, humanitarian access must be allowed and facilitated by all parties. The flow of aid and commercial items - both into and across Yemen - must be permitted. It's important that transport hubs, such as Sana'a airport, and also the seaports are opened again and quickly. We need a humanitarian access and supply regime, helping us to prevent the worst.
Fourth, access to detainees. The vicious cycle - whereby each side does not give ICRC access until their own people have been seen first - must be broken. There has been some access. But it needs to be significantly extended.
Dear colleagues, the ICRC stands by the Yemeni people but it needs a concerted effort from everyone.
Source: News Agencies, Edited by Website Team
