New york: UN officials on Thursday alerted the Security Council to the increasing threat of Yemen reverting to large-scale conflict, exacerbated by intensified front-line military activity and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

According to Anadolu Agency, special envoy Hans Grundberg expressed grave concerns, stating that Yemen is currently at its highest risk of returning to all-out war since the UN-mediated truce in 2022. He pointed to a marked escalation in attacks by Houthi rebels, cautioning that years of relative peace could be undone rapidly. Grundberg highlighted the increased attacks on commercial vessels by the rebels, which could further entangle Yemen in regional conflicts.

Humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher shed light on the dire humanitarian situation, with the nation's health services deteriorating and hunger on the rise. He reported that six million people are facing emergency levels of deprivation, on the brink of famine. Fletcher also emphasized the urgent need for support for nearly 11 million women and girls, noting that preventable, pregnancy-related complications claim the lives of three women every day.

Fletcher further elaborated on the impact of environmental challenges, mentioning that El Nino conditions are expected to cause a 40% reduction in rainfall, devastating crops and rural livelihoods. He criticized the international community for leaving Yemenis in "unacceptable" conditions, as the humanitarian appeal is only 20% funded.

Grundberg also addressed the issue of Yemen's economy being used as a "front line," with essential services and trade increasingly politicized. He called for the resumption of oil exports and commercial flights from Sanaa Airport to ease the burden on civilians.

Both UN officials condemned the arbitrary detention of 73 UN and NGO staff by Houthi authorities. Fletcher appealed for their release, calling it a matter of shared humanity.

Yemen has experienced a relatively calm period since April 2022 in a conflict that began almost 12 years ago between government forces and the Houthis, who have held control over the capital, Sanaa, and other regions since September 2014. However, fighting has resumed in several provinces recently, including Marib, Al-Jawf, Al-Dhalea, and Taiz, as Yemen continues to endure one of the world's most severe humanitarian and economic crises.

The conflict remains complex, with a Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen's internationally recognized government and Iran accused of backing the Houthis. In July, the Houthis declared a maritime blockade on Saudi Arabia.