A United Nations report reveals a 34 percent increase in acutely malnourished children in Yemen compared to last year, with famine looming in four districts.
Yemen is facing a dire situation as acute malnutrition rates are rapidly rising, especially along the Red Sea coast. The ongoing conflict between the Saudi-backed government and the Iran-aligned Houthis has exacerbated the already challenging conditions in one of the poorest countries in the Arabian Peninsula.
The latest report from the UN’s Integrated Food Security Phase Classification highlights a combination of factors contributing to the worsening malnutrition crisis in Yemen. These factors include the spread of diseases like cholera and measles, food shortages, lack of clean water, and economic deterioration.
The report predicts that over 18,500 children under five are at risk of severe malnutrition by the end of the year, along with 223,000 pregnant and lactating women. Additionally, four districts are expected to reach famine levels between July and October.
‘Wake-up call’
The IPC stresses the urgent need for increased support and intervention to address the crisis and prevent further suffering. With millions of Yemenis in need of humanitarian aid, it is crucial for global efforts to ramp up and provide assistance to those facing food insecurity and malnutrition.
As the situation remains critical, it is imperative for the international community to take action to prevent further escalation of the humanitarian disaster in Yemen.