More than 112,000 people have been displaced in Yemen, with nearly 3,000 fleeing to Djibouti, according to the United Nations, as fighting between the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces escalates.
The displacement has accelerated over the past two weeks, primarily along the west coast and in the provinces of Taiz and Lahj. The conflict has intensified between the Iran-allied Houthis and Saudi-backed forces, with the Houthis making a rapid advance and seizing control of the entire Red Sea coast. This move has tightened their grip on the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a vital shipping route. The United Nations estimates that 22 million Yemenis—nearly half the population—are in urgent need of humanitarian aid, with resources becoming increasingly limited and supplies expected to be depleted soon.
Approximately 65,000 registered refugees and asylum seekers in Yemen, mainly from Somalia and Ethiopia, are also at risk. The UNHCR reports that over 2,400 people have fled to Djibouti in the past week, with the majority being women, children, and older individuals. The shortest route across the Bab al-Mandeb Strait is just over 25 kilometers. The crisis is growing rapidly, with thousands of women and children on the move, many having lost all their possessions. Around 2,000 pregnant women are among the displaced, with approximately 200 expected to give birth shortly.
Why it matters
The rising number of people requiring aid shows the worsening humanitarian crisis.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch whether displaced pregnant women receive adequate medical care in temporary shelters.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.