Yemen faces escalating humanitarian crisis as airstrikes threaten vital airport and food supplies

Julien Harnais, the UN resident and humanitarian coordinator for Yemen, delivered a stark warning about the escalating humanitarian crisis in the country during a recent press conference from Sanaa. With 18 million people currently in need of assistance—nearly half the population—Harnais highlighted that this number is expected to rise to 19 million in 2025 due to worsening economic conditions rather than active conflict.

The situation is dire, with Yemen facing the second-highest number of malnourished children and the third-highest level of food insecurity globally. Harnais emphasized the critical role of Hodeidah Harbor, which is vital for food imports, as 80% of Yemen's foodstuffs come through this port. Recent airstrikes, particularly those targeting civilian infrastructure like airports, pose a significant threat to humanitarian operations and the safety of civilians.

Harnais recounted a harrowing experience during airstrikes at Sanaa Airport, where he was present when strikes destroyed air traffic control, narrowly missing a civilian airliner carrying 100 passengers. He stressed the importance of the airport for humanitarian workers and for Yemenis seeking advanced medical care abroad.

The humanitarian coordinator called for all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian law to prevent further suffering among the Yemeni population. As the situation continues to deteriorate, the international community's attention and action are more crucial than ever.