Yemen: Yemeni Armed Forces assault Houthi positions in Al-Bayda governorate April 6

Event

An unspecified number of casualties have been reported following an assault by Yemeni Armed Forces targeting Houthi positions in Al-Bayda governorate on Monday, April 6. Reports indicate that the military operation, which was supported by Arab coalition forces, targeted positions in Al-Malajam, Nateh, and Qaniyah in Al-Bayda governorate. The casualty numbers resulting from the assault has not been confirmed as of Monday, although sources state that dozens were killed and wounded. There were also reports of airstrikes carried out by Arab coalition aircraft targeting militant positions in Al-Bayda.

Further operations are likely in 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.