WFP loses access to 800,000 people needing aid in Yemen

The UN World Food Programme cannot deliver assistance to 800,000 people in Yemen because of escalating fighting and access restrictions, the organisation said on October 14.

The overall figure also includes communities on Yemen's west coast that WFP lost access to in early September. Fighting, blocked roads and worsening insecurity are hampering deliveries in Taiz.

The agency's monitoring shows wheat flour stocks in the city are nearly exhausted. Remaining food supplies in local markets may last only a short time if restrictions continue.

Across Yemen, more than 18 million people face acute food insecurity. WFP said the escalation had caused losses of food stocks and assets, disrupted offices and cut important supply routes.

In accessible areas, the programme has provided emergency assistance to more than 115,000 newly displaced people. It is ready to expand assistance to 1.5 million people if access permits.