It has taken a tremendous toll on this country, where millions are suffering the consequences of the conflict. We see images of Yemenis eating tree leaves and parents forced to watch their babies starve to death. This is completely unacceptable. The UN recently warned that they may be unable to prevent a massive famine β unless the security situation improves.
The escalation of hostilities along the coast has worsened an already disastrous situation: civilians and civilian infrastructure continue to be targeted, in clear violation of international humanitarian law. More than half a million people have been displaced from Hodeidah, where several hundred thousand more remain trapped. Public salaries in the northern part of the country, controlled by the Houthi, have not been paid in years. Instead of going to school, children are being recruited to fight on the frontlines.
With the collapse of basic services, Yemenis have been deprived of health facilities and drinking water. This has led to the worst cholera epidemic ever recorded in the country. The war has also disrupted imports of basic commodities, driving prices up and pushing more and more Yemenis into poverty and destitution. Smuggling and war profiteering are thriving on the back of a suffering population.
Lawlessness has allowed terrorist groups like al-Qaeda or Daesh to gain a foothold in the country. The war has also had an impact in the region. Saudi Arabia has become a regular target of missiles coming from Houthi-controlled areas. Maritime traffic between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean has been affected, as several ships have been targeted by rockets.
But perhaps more importantly, the war has increased regional tensions. Indeed, Yemen remains a catalyst for instability and regional turmoil. There is no easy fix for Yemen. A political settlement will require concessions from all sides, continued banking and diplomatic pressure from the international community. That is why we believe it is more crucial than ever at this time to lend as much support as possible to the United Nations and their Special Envoy, Martin Griffiths.
