The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) warned that the situation in Yemen is “disastrous” as he urged all sides in the conflict to abide by international humanitarian law.
Peter Maurer announced that the ICRC will be expanding its activities in Yemen due to the lack of aid reaching the conflict areas. “The international parties must be aware of the blockade which caused disastrous situations and allow access for goods and medicines into Yemen,” said Mr Maurer.
His announcement came as the United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen appealed for more contributions in order to meet the “staggering” needs in the country. Some 21 million people are in need of live-saving assistance said Johannes Van Der Klaauw following a visit to Sa'ada last week.
“The success of our humanitarian effort depends on having sufficient resources to provide assistance,” said Mr Van der Klaauw, noting that only 18% of the $1.6 billion humanitarian appeal had been funded.
“Violence that directly impacts civilians and attacks on civilian infrastructure must stop,” he added. “I cannot overemphasize the importance of all parties protecting civilian lives and livelihoods. Civilian infrastructure must be spared from airstrikes and shelling; at the same time these facilities must not be used for military purposes.”
Their comments come as Houthi militants lost the key city of Zinjibar to pro-government forces, who were supported by Saudi-led coalition air strikes on Sunday.
See our earlier post: Houthis lose key city (09 Aug 2015)