Yemen: Attack kills at least ten people in Saada province July 29

Event

An attack targeted a market in Qatabir district (Saada province) on Monday, July 29, killing at least ten civilians. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government blamed Houthi rebels for firing Katyusha rockets on the market; local hospital staff cited by Houthi media blamed the Saudi-led coalition for carrying out airstrikes on the market, with Houthi media claiming the death toll had increased to 14.

Similar attacks on civilian sites are to be expected in Yemen over the near term.

Context

Yemen is engaged in a complex and deadly conflict, ongoing since Houthi rebels entered into 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 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.