The humanitarian crisis in Yemen began in 2011 due to civil unrest and led to severe consequences, including 4.5 million displaced persons. The conflict, intensified by foreign intervention, has resulted in over 233,000 deaths and significant food insecurity. A large portion of the population requires immediate humanitarian aid. The situation remains critical despite a ceasefire, with many trapped in the region and suffering from a lack of basic necessities.
The Yemen humanitarian crisis began in 2011 amid the Arab Spring, when Yemeni citizens revolted against their government. This uprising led to a protracted civil war, exacerbated by Saudi and Emirati military intervention, resulting in 4.5 million internally displaced persons. The crisis has wreaked havoc on the Yemeni population, as detailed by Zainab Al Mutawakel, a Yemeni-born student reflecting on her family’s struggles and displacement.
Al Mutawakel described the difficulties of moving around due to the crisis, noting that her large family in Yemen is facing severe hardships. The blockade imposed by Saudi Arabia has severely restricted food imports and economic activity, leading to widespread suffering. The Houthis, a Shia Muslim group that overthrew the government in 2014, play a crucial role in the ongoing conflict, complicating the humanitarian situation further.
According to the United Nations, the crisis has claimed over 233,000 lives, mostly due to indirect causes like famine and disease. Currently, two-thirds of Yemen’s population—approximately 21.6 million—requires humanitarian assistance, with around 17.6 million people facing extreme hunger. Water scarcity has exacerbated these conditions, with nearly 17.8 million people lacking access to clean water, leading to a cholera outbreak that has sickened millions.
Despite a ceasefire agreed upon in 2022, the situation in Yemen remains dire. Travel from the country is nearly impossible, with damaged infrastructure and obstacles for those attempting to flee. The realities of obtaining visas and the cost of travel only hinder those seeking safety or necessary resources.
Al Mutawakel expressed a sense of guilt about her educational opportunities compared to those suffering in Yemen without access to basic services or education. Both Al Mutawakel and Professor David Mednicoff highlighted the need for international awareness and attention regarding the Yemen crisis, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and assisting vulnerable populations.
Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, resulting from ongoing conflict and external interventions, has caused massive displacement and severe suffering among its population. With millions in urgent need of aid, many are facing hunger, lack of healthcare, and inadequate access to clean water. Despite some international awareness, the crisis receives insufficient attention, making outreach and advocacy essential for humanitarian relief efforts.
Original Source: dailycollegian.com
