Taiz:Cairo Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Fahmy has issued a stark warning regarding the humanitarian situation in Yemen's southwestern Taiz province, highlighting the dire consequences of ongoing Houthi-imposed restrictions on vital supplies.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Fahmy expressed grave concern over the deteriorating health conditions in Taiz, emphasizing that hospitals are experiencing severe shortages of essential resources such as fuel, oxygen, medicines, and medical supplies. The scarcity of these supplies threatens to halt critical services, including the operation of incubators for newborns and premature babies.

The Arab League's statement underscored the direct threat to the lives of children and patients due to the continued obstruction of supplies. Fahmy condemned the deprivation of civilians from necessary medical care and humanitarian assistance as unacceptable, urging the Houthis to lift the restrictions immediately. He stressed that saving lives should not be delayed or subjected to political or military considerations.

Fahmy also called for safe passage for patients and medical personnel, as well as investigations into violations and accountability for those obstructing humanitarian aid or terrorizing civilians. He urged humanitarian organizations and relevant parties to act swiftly to secure the delivery of fuel, oxygen, and medicines to hospitals in need.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has also warned of worsening conditions in Taiz due to disrupted supply routes and increased pressure on essential services. The roads to the city remain blocked due to ongoing conflict, hindering the delivery of life-saving aid and goods. The province is currently home to around 140,000 displaced individuals since early August, representing a significant portion of Yemen's displaced population.

Yemen's ongoing conflict, which began when the Houthis seized the capital Sanaa in 2014, has seen a resurgence in military activities since July, following a period of relative calm after a truce in April 2022. The situation remains critical as the Saudi-led coalition continues to support Yemen's internationally recognized government.