Amid Escalating Conflict in Southern Yemen, Intl. Humanitarian Agencies Stop Work

A dozen international humanitarian organizations have stopped their activities in Yemen’s southwestern province of Dhale after unknown individuals, armed with rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), launched attacks against the premises of three aid agencies there.
United Nations Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Mark Lowcock condemned the attacks in a statement on Monday, and called for a thorough investigation into the assaults, which wounded one person.

“These events represent an alarming escalation in the risks faced by humanitarian workers in Yemen. Twelve organizations have now been forced to suspend aid programs in Dhale, which will affect 217,000 local residents. Several organizations are working with local staff to ensure the most essential activities can continue,” he said.

Lowcock also expressed his continued grave concern over media campaigns in parts of Yemen that spread rumors and incitement against aid operations.

“I condemn these attacks unreservedly. I urge a thorough investigation, and I express my appreciation to the government of Yemen for the work they have begun in this regard,” the senior UN official pointed out.
Humanitarians reach more than 12 million people across the country each month, Lowcock said, adding that they rely on the authorities to ensure they can operate in safe conditions.

Source: Press TV