UN Food Agency Suspends Operations in Northern Yemen

Houthi rebels impose restrictions and harassment, forcing agency to halt work

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:15am

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The United Nations food agency is shutting down its operations in northern Yemen after the Houthi rebels imposed restrictions and harassment, making it impossible to continue their humanitarian work in the region.

Why it matters

The suspension of UN food aid operations in northern Yemen is a significant setback in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the country, where millions rely on international assistance to stave off famine and malnutrition.

The details

The World Food Programme (WFP) said it has been forced to halt its activities in the Houthi-controlled north due to the rebels' interference, including restrictions on staff movement and goods, as well as intimidation and harassment of aid workers.

  • The WFP announced the suspension of operations on January 29, 2026.

The players

World Food Programme (WFP)

The United Nations agency responsible for providing food assistance and addressing global hunger.

Houthi rebels

An armed movement that has been in control of northern Yemen since 2014, engaged in an ongoing conflict with the internationally recognized Yemeni government.

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What they’re saying

“We have no choice but to suspend our operations in northern Yemen as we can no longer deliver assistance in a safe, effective and efficient manner.”

— David Beasley, Executive Director, World Food Programme

The takeaway

The suspension of UN food aid in northern Yemen is a devastating blow to the region's vulnerable population, underscoring the urgent need for a political resolution to the conflict that has crippled the country's infrastructure and humanitarian efforts.