Yemen: Saudi-led coalition strikes targets in Houthi-controlled Sana’a March 30

Event

The Saudi-led coalition fighting in the Yemeni Civil War in support of the Hadi-led government carried out airstrikes on targets in Houthi-controlled Sana'a on Monday, March 30. The strikes reportedly hit the presidential palace area, an airbase near Sana'a International Airport (SAH), and a military school in the capital. The Saudi-led coalition claimed that the attack sought to destroy "legitimate military targets, including Houthi ballistic batteries."

Similar coalition-led attacks in Yemen and Houthi reprisals employing drones and missiles launched toward Saudi Arabia are possible over the near term.

Context

Yemen is engaged in a complex and deadly conflict, ongoing since Houthi rebels entered a civil war with the Yemeni government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition, in 2015. The Saudi-led coalition has carried out thousands of airstrikes in Yemen since its intervention began. Hundreds of Yemeni civilians have been killed in the strikes, which have hit schools, hospitals, and markets, in addition to Houthi militant positions and personnel. In total, more than 10,000 Yemenis have died in the fighting and some 3 million have been displaced.

Advice

Due to poor security conditions, many Western governments strongly advise their citizens against all travel to Yemen. Travel to the country should only be considered with proper security protocols in place. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.