Nov 12, 2018

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned Monday that the destruction of the Yemeni port of Hodeida, a vital lifeline for millions of starving civilians, could trigger a "catastrophic" situation.

Medics and military sources say at least 149 people have been killed in 24 hours of heavy clashes as government loyalists, backed by a Saudi-led coalition, fight to oust Huthi rebels from the Red Sea city.

"If the port at Hodeida is destroyed, that could create an absolutely catastrophic situation," Guterres told France Inter radio during a trip to Paris.

Yemen is already facing a "disast

rous" humanitarian situation, Guterres said, adding: "The hostilities must stop."