The International Rescue Committee (IRC) welcomes the two month extension of the truce in Yemen, which remains one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world with over 20 million people in need of assistance. 

Zeleke Bacha, IRC Yemen Deputy Director of Operations, said, “The extension of this truce is a positive development for the people of Yemen. The truce has seen civilian deaths resulting from airstrikes reach an all-time low. Reduced violence has allowed the delivery of aid to more people in need, and commercial flights from Sana’a have resumed, providing some respite to Yemenis and stimulating the local economy. 

“However, Yemenis still face desperate challenges. Food is increasingly unaffordable, as a result of rising unemployment and inflation. Over 45% of wheat imports come directly from Russia and Ukraine. It is essential that critical aid and essential supplies are able to reach people most in need.