ICRC describes Mali situation as alarming

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NIAMEY, Niger, Sept. 14 (UPI) -- The International Committee of the Red Cross said the unfolding situation in northern Mali is "becoming more and more alarming."

The ICRC issued a plea for funds to help support humanitarian efforts in northern Mali.

Yasmine Praz Dessimoz, head of north African operations for the ICRC, said food prices have soared in the region. The humanitarian situation is growing severe and many families have fled their homes as a result of the violence.

"In the north of the country, the situation is becoming more and more alarming," she said in a statement from neighboring Niger. "Thousands of people affected in one way or another by the armed conflict are completely dependent on humanitarian aid."

Interim President Dioncounda Traore last week called for military assistance from members of the Economic Community of West African States. Mali was split when rebel forces, some of which aligned with al-Qaida, claimed control over the north of the country following a coup early this year.

ECOWAS said it has a force of around 3,000 troops ready to intervene to help the administration in Bamako.

U.N. officials have said there was no meaningful dialogue between the central government and insurgent groups in the north.