Yemen warns of health catastrophe in Taiz as Houthis tighten siege

Yemen's health ministry has warned of an imminent health catastrophe in Taiz, where Houthi blockades have left medicines, fuel and supplies nearing depletion.

• The Health Ministry said emergency care, surgery, intensive care, dialysis and neonatal services could be forced to stop.
• Houthi forces captured Mocha in September and At Turbah on October 4, cutting the last main road linking Taiz to government-held areas.
• Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces began a counteroffensive in early October.
• The ministry demanded the siege be lifted and called on the UN to deliver medicines, fluids, supplies, oxygen and fuel.