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New York TimesDEC 1 2023
World Food Programme Suspends Distribution in North Yemen
Image copyright: Mohammed Hamoud/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
This has been a painful decision for the WFP due to a drop in aid resources and the fact that the Houthis have prevented an agreement on the establishment of a secure and accountable aid distribution mechanism. However, it is not only the Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen that are affected — the WFP had to make similar decisions in almost half of its global operations as the organization struggles with declining funding for its programs, as does the entire humanitarian sector. The international community must act now to fulfill its humanitarian responsibilities.
Establishment-critical narrative
While the WFP blames the Houthis for its disastrous decision, it was a politically motivated measure taken under US pressure in violation of international humanitarian law. It is no coincidence that the move comes just as the Houthis are launching operations in support of Palestinians in Gaza —who are suffering their own humanitarian apocalypse at the hands of Israel. The Yemeni people will not back down and remain committed to supporting the Palestinians' just struggle for freedom and dignity.