Yemen: Landmine kills six in Sirwah (Ma'rib governorate) February 19

Event

At least six Yemeni soldiers were killed and several others were wounded when a military convoy carrying Defense Minister Muhammad Ali Maqdashi hit a landmine in Sirwah (Ma'rib governorate) on Wednesday, February 19. According to government sources, the defense minister was unharmed. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Similar attacks are possible in Yemen 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.