Key facts
- UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric warned on Thursday that Yemen's humanitarian situation is worsening.
- The UN Human Rights Office verified 55 civilian casualties from 19 incidents in Yemen in early January.
- Sixteen people, including 10 children, were killed in Yemen in early January.
- Funding shortages and security incidents are hindering the international humanitarian response in Yemen.
- Yemen's 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is only 25% funded.
- 453 health facilities in Yemen faced partial or imminent closure in 2025.
The humanitarian situation in Yemen is deteriorating amid escalating regional tensions, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric warned on Thursday. The UN Human Rights Office has verified 55 civilian casualties from 19 incidents in the governorates of Taiz, Hodeidah, Marib and Lahj since the start of January, though the actual toll is likely higher. Among the verified casualties, 16 people were killed, including 10 children.
Yemen is enduring one of the most protracted and devastating crises in recent history, with years of political instability and armed conflict taking a heavy toll on the population. Millions struggle daily to access food, healthcare, and education, while the most vulnerable face heightened protection risks. The economic collapse and worsening food insecurity are driving families further into desperation.
The UN-led humanitarian response plan for 2025 faces significant funding shortfalls, with only 25% of the required funds secured as of December. This has forced aid agencies to scale back life-saving services across all sectors. The health system, already weakened, is on the brink, with 453 health facilities facing partial or imminent closure across 22 governorates in 2025. Restrictions on access, funding shortages, and security incidents involving humanitarian premises are hindering the international response.