Canada calls for humanitarian access and de-escalation of violence in Yemen

December 6, 2017 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today released the following statement regarding the ongoing situation in Yemen:

“Canada remains deeply concerned by the conflict in Yemen, which has had a devastating impact on civilians. Since the beginning of the war in 2014, thousands of civilians have been killed as a result of violence, disease or famine. The recent escalation of violence comes at a time when millions in the country are deprived of food, water, medicine and other life-saving supplies.

“Canada supports the call made by the United Nations for a humanitarian pause to allow civilians to leave their homes to seek assistance and protection.

“Unless all parties to the conflict allow the urgent resumption of humanitarian and commercial imports, many more civilians, including a great many children, will die. Restoring peace to the country and dignity to its people is urgent.

 “Further, Canada calls on all parties to the conflict in Yemen to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law to avoid civilian casualties, including those of humanitarian and medical personnel, and to allow and facilitate the delivery of life-saving assistance to civilians in need.

“Canada calls on both the Houthis rebels and their supporters, and the Hadi Government and its Coalition partners, to return to the negotiating table.”

Contacts

Adam Austen
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
Adam.Austen@international.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
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