UNFPA Warns of Worsening Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen as Maternal Deaths Rise

Aden – The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) warned Monday of the continued deterioration of Yemen’s humanitarian situation, stressing that three women die every day from pregnancy or childbirth complications amid a severe funding shortage threatening life‑saving services.

According to the agency, nearly 22 million people in Yemen remain in need of humanitarian assistance. 

Of the 765,000 pregnant women, 80 percent lack access to essential maternal care, while 6.2 million women and girls face heightened risks of gender‑based violence.

UNFPA cautioned that critical funding gaps could force drastic cuts to humanitarian programs, worsening the plight of the most vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.

Since January 2026, the agency said it has reached about 400,000 people across Yemen, supporting more than 8,200 safe deliveries, assisting over 9,000 survivors of violence, and providing emergency relief to 55,000 people.

The fund emphasized that sustained international support is vital to maintaining reproductive health, protection, and humanitarian services. 

Without additional resources, millions of Yemenis could be deprived of essential care, with devastating consequences for maternal health and community safety.