Aden — Yemen has been ranked as the third most food-insecure country in the world, according to a new report released by the United Nations, highlighting the devastating impact of prolonged conflict, economic collapse, and restricted humanitarian access.

The classification places Yemen behind only South Sudan and Somalia in terms of acute food insecurity, with millions of Yemenis facing emergency levels of hunger. 

The UN’s Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) estimates that over 17 million people in Yemen are currently food insecure, including more than 7 million suffering from severe malnutrition.

The report attributes the crisis to ongoing hostilities, displacement, and the collapse of essential services, compounded by rising food prices and limited access to clean water and healthcare. 

Children and pregnant women are among the most vulnerable, with aid agencies warning of a looming famine in several governorates if urgent action is not taken.

UN officials called for increased international support and unhindered humanitarian access to affected areas. “Yemen’s food crisis is entirely man-made and reversible,” said a spokesperson for the World Food Programme. “What’s needed is sustained peace, economic recovery, and full access for aid operations.”

The ranking underscores the urgency of diplomatic efforts to end the conflict and restore basic living conditions for Yemen’s population, many of whom have endured years of hardship with little relief.