Civilian casualties top 8,000 in war-torn Yemen

The United Nations recorded civilian casualties between March and December at 8,119 as a result of Saudi-led coalition airstrikes and shelling by the Houthi rebels.

At least 62 civilians were killed in December, double the number killed in November.

"Airstrikes have continued into the New Year, with around 11 strikes taking place in the capital Sanaa on Sunday and Monday," said the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights spokesperson Rupert Colville. 

"Further airstrikes are reported to have been carried out in the early hours of this morning," added Colville during a press conference on Wednesday. 

Efforts to broker a ceasefire and halt the confrontations have been constantly hampered by repeat ceasefire violations.

A recent ceasefire declared in December was short-lived as fighting between the warring factions continued.

All sides have been urged by the UN Security Council to resume a "meaningful" and "sustainable" truce on Tuesday.

"The members of the council urged the parties to resume a meaningful, sustainable ceasefire that would be respected by all sides," said Uruguay's UN Ambassador Elbio Rosselli.

"For the members of the council this is of fundamental importance."

The health situation in Taiz governorate has also continued to deteriorate, the UN reported.

Al-Rawdha Hospital, one of the largest still operating, has been forced to turn patients away and raises fresh concerns over civilian causalities.

The Saudi-led coalition commenced an offensive in March against the Houthi rebels, in attempt to drive them back and restore the government in Yemen.