UN reduces Yemen aid amid Houthi crackdown on staff

The United Nations has reduced its operations in Yemen due to a crackdown by Houthi rebels on humanitarian staff. Acting U.N. humanitarian chief Joyce Msuya reported to the U.N. Security Council that the organization is focusing on essential lifesaving activities while deprioritizing broader developmental efforts. This decision follows the detention of over 60 humanitarian workers by the Houthis, who also made unverified claims of an 'American-Israeli spy network.' Msuya condemned these allegations, stating they jeopardize the safety of humanitarian workers and hinder aid delivery. The humanitarian crisis in Yemen is worsening, with 62% of households lacking sufficient food, marking a historically high figure. Msuya highlighted that three districts are facing extreme malnutrition levels, with projections indicating that over 600,000 children will be acutely malnourished by the end of December. The U.N. humanitarian appeal for $2.7 billion is only 28% funded, raising concerns about the ability to address the escalating needs. The Houthis have intensified their crackdown on dissent, detaining individuals involved in humanitarian efforts and sentencing others to death. This has created a climate of fear, further complicating the delivery of aid. Msuya emphasized the need for safe access for humanitarian workers to effectively respond to the crisis. The situation in Yemen remains dire, with the U.N. calling for the immediate release of detained personnel and urging for an end to the interference in humanitarian activities. Without improved conditions for aid workers, the potential for expanding humanitarian programs is severely limited.