Yemen: Suspected Houthi missile strikes military parade in al-Dhalea December 29

Event

A missile struck a military parade in the southern town of al-Dhalea on Sunday, December 29, killing at least six people and wounding 15 others. According to separatist forces with the Security Belt, the blast was caused by a Houthi missile. As of Sunday evening (local time), no claim of responsibility has been made by the Houthis.

Further such attacks are possible in 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 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.