Escalating conflict in Yemen since 2015 has damaged or destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure and prompted high levels of displacement, resulting in widespread humanitarian needs. Climate shocks, such as drought and floods; economic decline; and protracted political instability have exacerbated vulnerabilities, driving food, nutrition, protection, and water, sanitation, and hygiene needs among the population. Approximately 18.2 million people—more than one-half of the country’s total population—are in need of humanitarian assistance, according to the 2024 Humanitarian Needs Overview for Yemen. However, ongoing insecurity and interference by governing authorities have limited the ability of humanitarian organizations to conduct assessments and effectively deliver assistance to people most in need.
In response to the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, the U.S. Government has provided approximately $5.9 billion—including more than $5.1 billion from USAID—in humanitarian assistance since 2015. USAID partners are supporting populations in need across Yemen by providing access to safe drinking water, acute malnutrition screening and treatment, emergency food assistance, health care services, and protection support.
