Yemen faces a surge of violence and hunger that threatens millions with starvation and risks destabilizing neighboring countries. The crisis, deeply linked to wider regional conflicts, is straining humanitarian efforts and heightening tensions across the Middle East.
UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg told the Security Council on Monday that the turmoil in Yemen cannot be seen in isolation.
“Yemen is both a mirror and a magnifier of the region’s volatility,” he said, noting that progress toward peace is hampered by regional rivalries, cross-border dynamics, and internal divisions.
Mr. Grundberg highlighted a dangerous escalation in hostilities, noting repeated attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure. Military clashes in Al Dhale’, Ma’rib, and Ta’iz underscore the risk that miscalculations could trigger a return to full-scale conflict.
He warned that Yemen’s conflict is unravelling within an already volatile regional landscape cautioning that the current cycle of violence is dragging Yemen further from a peace process that could deliver sustainable, long-term peace and economic growth.
UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher told the Council that Yemen remains the third most food-insecure country in the world, with 17 million people already struggling to eat and an additional one million expected to face extreme hunger before February next year.
Mr. Fletcher highlighted that one in five households goes a full day without any food, while two million women and girls have lost access to reproductive health services amid funding shortfalls.
Despite funding gaps and a challenging operating environment, humanitarians continue to deliver aid where possible. In Hajjah, Amran, and Ma’rib, organizations have provided food, water, health, and nutrition services to tens of thousands.
Mr. Fletcher warned that ongoing hostilities, infrastructure damage, and the detention of UN staff severely hamper operations.
Twenty-two UN personnel have been recently arbitrarily detained by Houthi rebels; though one staff member was released, over 40 remain in detention, including a staff who died while in custody.
Both UN officials emphasised the urgent need for dialogue and adherence to international law.
Special Envoy Grundberg urged Yemeni leaders to step back from unilateral actions and pursue a nationwide ceasefire, economic reforms, and inclusive political engagement.
Mr. Fletcher called for the immediate release of all detained aid workers and a secure operating environment, warning that funding cuts and conflict-related obstacles are costing lives.