Mercy Corps: Measure of Yemen Agreement Will Be in Action, Not Words

Following discussions on a range of issues at peace talks in Sweden, Yemen's warring parties have today announced that they have agreed to a cease-fire for the strategic port city of Hodeidah

Commenting on the announcement, Abdikadir Mohamud, Mercy Corps Country Director in Yemen said:

“While we are hopeful that the ceasefire agreement regarding the Hodeidah port will benefit the Yemeni people, this is just a first step.

“The measure of the agreement will be taken in action on the ground, not words in a conference room. We need lifesaving supplies to reach the millions of people in need, and we need safe passage for the humanitarians who will distribute them.

"All parties to the conflict and their international supporters must immediately cease the fighting, reopen all of Yemen’s ports, facilitate humanitarian response, and take measures to stabilize the Yemeni economy.”

Notes to editors:

• Around Hodeidah, in communities supporting those fleeing the conflict, Mercy Corps teams reported a doubling of malnutrition cases in the month leading up to the peace talks.
• Mercy Corps is currently providing food assistance to approximately a quarter-million people and reached more than 3.7 million people with humanitarian assistance last year in Yemen.
• To combat the spread of cholera and other diseases, Mercy Corps has established close to 100 oral rehydration stations and more than a dozen central treatment centers. At the same time, the organization refitted 25 key regional health facilities and trained close to 300 health care providers. Mercy Corps is also a leader in the installation of solar-powered wells and other measures to improve sanitation and support public health.