The United Nations has decided to scale back its operations in Yemen due to increased hostility and crackdowns by Houthi rebels on U.N. staff and other humanitarian organizations, the top U.N. aid official announced on Thursday. Acting U.N. humanitarian chief Joyce Msuya informed the U.N. Security Council that measures have been taken to reduce the exposure of staff to risks in areas controlled by the Houthis. The U.N. is now focusing only on essential life-saving activities and prioritizing the well-being of its workers amid the ongoing challenges.

Msuya strongly condemned the false allegations made by the Houthis against humanitarian workers and urged for the immediate release of all those detained, including U.N. personnel, members of civil society, and others. Since the crackdown began more than 100 days ago, many individuals involved in critical humanitarian efforts have been targeted and detained by the Houthis, causing further strain on the already dire situation in Yemen.

The civil war in Yemen, with the Houthi rebels fighting against the internationally recognized government backed by a Saudi-led coalition, has resulted in the deaths of over 150,000 people and has led to one of the worst humanitarian crises globally. Msuya highlighted the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Yemen, with a significant percentage of households reporting food insecurity and critical levels of malnutrition in several districts, raising concerns of famine.

With only 28% of the U.N.’s humanitarian appeal for $2.7 billion for Yemen funded this year, there is an urgent need for more support to prevent a catastrophic situation. Msuya emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of humanitarian workers to continue providing aid effectively. Despite the current challenges, there is hope that with improved conditions, the U.N. can expand its programming in Yemen in the future.