The European Union has issued a stark warning about the escalating risk of famine in Yemen, calling the situation “real and urgent” amid deepening humanitarian and economic crises. In response, the EU announced a €9 million emergency funding package to support the World Food Programme (WFP) and other humanitarian partners working in the region.

The aid targets vulnerable communities in conflict-affected areas such as Hajjah, Taiz, and Hodeidah, where acute food insecurity has reached alarming levels. The funding will be used for malnutrition treatment, agricultural support, and livelihood restoration, with a particular focus on women and children.

EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib emphasized the gravity of the crisis: “Millions of Yemenis are on the brink of starvation. This funding is a lifeline to those most at risk. We urge all parties to facilitate humanitarian access and uphold international humanitarian law”.

This initiative follows the 7th Senior Officials Meeting on Yemen held in Brussels, where the EU reaffirmed its commitment to coordinating international efforts to prevent famine and support long-term recovery.

Since the outbreak of conflict in 2015, the EU has contributed nearly €1.6 billion in aid to Yemen, including food, health, education, and mine clearance programs. Humanitarian agencies warn that without sustained global support, famine could become widespread, especially as funding shortfalls force aid groups to scale back operations.