Mocha: The UN expressed 'deep concern' on Thursday after unknown parties seized eight humanitarian vehicles from its hub in the Yemeni port city of Mocha, coinciding with an escalation in local hostilities.
According to Anadolu Agency, UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq confirmed that the seizures took place at the humanitarian hub in Mocha amidst recent developments in the area. Haq noted that the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is alarmed by these events, highlighting that the Yemeni population does not need further conflict and displacement.
Haq further explained that the seizure of these vehicles is critically hindering life-saving operations and obstructing relief agencies in their efforts to deliver aid to vulnerable communities. Despite these obstacles, emergency response teams have managed to reach over 2,700 households. However, Haq emphasized the necessity of securing additional international funding to assist other affected communities.
He reiterated calls for all involved parties to adhere to international humanitarian law, urging them to safeguard civilians, allow them access to safer areas, and ensure unhindered passage for relief convoys.
In the backdrop of these concerns, western Yemen is witnessing significant military changes. Reports indicate that Houthi forces are advancing towards regions around Mocha and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical maritime route connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
Yemeni media outlets have reported Houthi advances into the Hays and Al-Khawkhah districts in southern Al-Hudaydah province following the retreat of government and allied forces, although these claims remain unverified by Anadolu.
In retaliation, Yemeni government forces have declared the establishment of a unified command center south of Mocha. The conflict between Yemeni government forces and the Houthis has reignited since early July, reversing a period of relative peace that began with a truce in April 2022.
The Houthis have maintained control over Yemen's capital, Sanaa, and extensive territories in the northern and western regions since September 2014, while government and allied forces hold sway in the southern and eastern parts. Since March 2015, a Saudi-led coalition has backed Yemen's government against the Houthis, who are accused of receiving support from Iran.