A new analysis by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has revealed that more than 12.2 million people—nearly half the population living in Houthi-controlled areas of northern Yemen—are facing high levels of acute food insecurity, with urgent humanitarian assistance needed between May and August 2025.

The report indicates that 8.5 million people are experiencing Crisis-level food insecurity (IPC Phase 3), while 3.7 million are in the more severe Emergency phase (IPC Phase 4). All 215 districts analyzed in Houthi-held territories are affected, with over 100 districts classified as being in a state of emergency.

The deterioration is attributed to a combination of prolonged conflict, economic collapse, climate shocks, and the suspension of humanitarian food aid. The ongoing Red Sea crisis, airstrikes on port infrastructure, and the designation of the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) have further disrupted supply chains and livelihoods.

The report also warns that the suspension of the Humanitarian Food Assistance Program (HFSA) since May 2025 poses a serious threat. While nearly 2.85 million people were reached in early 2025, only 61,000 individuals are expected to receive aid in the coming months due to funding cuts.

The UN calls for an immediate resumption of aid, de-escalation of hostilities, and improved humanitarian access to prevent further deterioration and support long-term recovery.