The World Health Organization is concerned about the deteriorating health situation in Taiz, where more than 250 000 people have been living in a state of virtual siege since November 2015.

A news release by WHO said "all of city's six hospitals have been forced to partially close some services, and are overwhelmed with injured patients. Humanitarian organizations are struggling to deliver medical and surgical supplies due to the insecurity".

"Five WHO trucks carrying medicines and medical supplies have been prevented from entering the city since 14 December 2015. The trucks contain trauma medicines, medicines for the treatment of diarrhoea, and other health supplies that urgently need to be delivered to Al-Thawra, Al-Jumhoori, Al-Rawdhaand Al-Mudhaffar Hospitals. Three of the trucks are carrying 500 cylinders of oxygen that are critically needed by the hospitals."

"WHO calls on all parties involved in the conflict to allow the secure movement and delivery of medical and humanitarian aid to all people, regardless of their location. In times of crisis, it is vital that health facilities remain functional and provide people in need with uninterrupted access to life-saving medical care," the statement concluded.