NEW YORK, USA, 28 August 2009 – The situation for the more than 100,000 people fleeing conflict between government and rebel forces in Yemen is deteriorating.

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Despite the efforts of UNICEF and aid partners, the most vulnerable victims of the fighting are "in very bad shape," said UNICEF Representative in Yemen Aboudou Karimou Adjibade. Many of the displaced are living in temporary camps that have been impossible to reach with relief supplies, he added.

Earlier this week, UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman issued a statement declaring the agency's readiness to assist the civilian population.

"It is essential that we gain immediate and secure access to provide urgently needed humanitarian assistance. Children cannot be the innocent victims of conflict," she said.

Child-friendly safe zones
For those people who can be reached in camps outside of the conflict zone, UNICEF is providing water and sanitation, and food items. Some 825 water filters, 1,000 jerry cans, 500 hygiene kits and 300,000 water purification tablets have been distributed. Other supplies are being pre-positioned for anticipated needs.

Feeding centres and child-friendly safe zones have been established in the displacement camps.

The government has had intermittent conflict with rebel groups for five years. The heightened violence that began a month ago is now concentrated in the Sa'ada, Haajah and Aljouf governorates.