Yémen
The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) has announced the suspension of its operations in northern Yemen, a region under Houthi rebel control, citing increasing restrictions, harassment, and funding shortages. This decision, effective by the end of March 2026, will result in the loss of jobs for 365 staff members and is expected to exacerbate the already dire humanitarian crisis in the area.
Yemen's civil war began in 2014 when the Houthis captured the capital, Sanaa, prompting the internationally recognized government to flee south. Rebel-controlled areas, especially in the north, now account for 70% of Yemen's humanitarian needs. In recent months, the Houthis have intensified their crackdown, detaining numerous U.N. workers and storming U.N. premises, accusing aid staff of espionage—claims the U.N. denies.
The suspension of WFP’s aid will likely worsen the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, where over 18 million people are expected to face acute food insecurity, with tens of thousands at risk of famine. Humanitarian funding for Yemen was only 25% met in 2025, forcing cutbacks in critical services like health and protection.
The cessation of WFP operations in northern Yemen underscores the challenges faced by humanitarian organizations operating in conflict zones and highlights the urgent need for increased international support and funding to address the escalating crisis.
