"We note with deep concern the sharp increase in civilian casualties since the suspension of peace talks, with 180 people killed and 268 injured in August… In total, 3,980 civilians have been killed and 6,909 injured between 26 March 2015 and 22 September 2016," Cecile Pouilly said at a press briefing.
The August figures represent a 40-percent increase compared to the civilian casualties the previous month, with 60 killed and 123 injured, she noted.
"In the light of the high civilian casualty numbers and the terrible suffering of the civilian population, we urge all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, including their obligation to respect the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution. We reiterate our call for the setting up of an international and independent investigative body," Pouilly stressed.
Yemen has been engulfed in a military conflict between the government headed by Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi and Houthi rebels since 2014. The Houthis are backed by army units loyal to former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh.
