UN says more than 300,000 have fled fighting in western Yemen

More than 300,000 individuals have fled their homes in western Yemen due to escalating conflict between Houthi rebels and Saudi-backed government forces, according to the United Nations. The majority of these displaced people emerged from their homes within the past two months, and they now require immediate assistance with shelter, sustenance, clean water, and medical care, as reported by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Yemen descended into war again in July after a four-year period of relative peace, a situation exacerbated by the broader Middle East crisis. The fighting escalated further in September with a Houthi offensive targeting western regions. Saudi Arabia has responded with airstrikes against Houthi strongholds, while the Iranian-backed group has intensified its assaults inside Saudi Arabia.

The IOM is currently delivering medical aid to civilians in five different locations. However, humanitarian aid workers warn that without additional funding, thousands of families may be left without the necessary support. Abdusattor Esoev, the IOM Yemen chief of mission, stressed this concern in a statement. The organization stated that the ongoing fighting has led to a sharp increase in prices for essential commodities, rendering many basic food supplies inaccessible to numerous families.

The IOM has requested US$45 million over the next six months to continue providing essential humanitarian assistance. They also implored all parties involved in the conflict to safeguard civilians and humanitarian personnel, ensuring safe and unhindered access to humanitarian aid, especially in difficult-to-access areas such as Taiz, a significant western city.