Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News – 24-01-2018
A record 22.2 million people in Yemen are now in need of assistance – 3.4 million more than last year.
This is according to a United National (UN) official who express his deep concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in that country.
UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Mark Lowcock says the ongoing conflict in Yemen has collapsed basic service and thrust the country into economic decline.
Lowcock has called on all parties to cease hostilities and engage meaningfully with the UN to achieve a lasting political settlement
“Yemenis have suffered for too long.”
He encouraged all donors to contribute to the recently launched 2018 Yemen Humanitarian Response plan, which requires $2.96 billion to provide life-saving assistance and protection to more than 13 million people across the country this year.
Lowcock welcomed the nearly $1 billion pledge by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as well as an additional $500 million in commitment from regional donors.
He also noted the importance of keeping all of Yemen’s ports, including Hudaydah and Saleef, open to humanitarian assistance and commercial imports of food, fuel and medicines. Over 70 per cent of people in need of assistance live in proximity to those two Red Sea ports.
Since the decision to re-open Hudaydah and Saleef last month, the United Nations and its partners have successfully delivered large volumes of food, medicines and fuel to people in need.
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