Yemen: UXO blast injures three in Hudaydah province November 25

Event

At least three children were wounded in a blast likely caused by unexploded ordnance (UXO), and likely to be explosive remnants of war, in the Khawkhah district (Hudaydah province) on Wednesday, November 25. Unconfirmed media sources indicate that the children were walking towards a farm in the area when the blast occurred. They were transported to a nearby medical center to receive treatment for injuries.

Similar incidents are possible across Yemen in the medium 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.