[01/11/2026 04:36]

ADEN-SABA

Minister of Public Health and Population Dr. Qasim Buhaibeh discussed with the Head of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Belgium mission to Yemen ways to expand the organization's health interventions and strengthen emergency medical services and response to growing humanitarian needs.

The meeting, held in the interim capital Aden, reviewed MSF's medical and humanitarian activities in Yemen, including its geographical coverage, emergency response services and support for health facilities, particularly in areas affected by the ongoing Houthi military escalation.

The two sides also discussed assessing medical needs and strengthening the response to acute watery diarrhea through treatment and prevention measures, including the provision of medicines, medical supplies and intravenous fluids, as well as improving the readiness of health facilities and medical personnel to manage cases and prevent further spread of the disease.

Minister Buhaibeh stressed the importance of MSF Belgium's role in supporting Yemen's health sector, particularly amid mounting pressure on emergency services and increasing medical needs resulting from the ongoing military escalation.

He called for directing support towards the most urgent health priorities, particularly emergency and ambulance services, treatment of the wounded, essential medicines and medical supplies, and strengthening the capacity of health facilities and medical staff.

He also emphasized the need for closer coordination between the ministry and the organization to identify field requirements and ensure a rapid and effective response.

Regarding acute watery diarrhea, the minister highlighted the need for an integrated response involving early detection and treatment, adequate medical supplies and intravenous fluids, infection prevention measures, enhanced epidemiological surveillance and community awareness.

Buhaibeh reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to strengthening partnerships with international and humanitarian organizations and aligning their interventions with national health plans to ensure efficient use of available resources and avoid duplication. He also pledged to facilitate the work of medical and humanitarian teams and address obstacles to implementing their programs.

For her part, the MSF Belgium mission chief outlined the organization's medical and humanitarian activities in Yemen, particularly its emergency interventions and efforts to address acute watery diarrhea. She stressed the importance of continued coordination with the ministry and field assessments to direct assistance towards the areas and health facilities most in need.

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