Renewed fighting in Yemen has sparked a fresh humanitarian crisis, with the UN warning of a significant increase in refugees fleeing to Djibouti. The conflict between the Houthi militia and forces loyal to the Aden-based government, backed by Saudi Arabia, has left hundreds dead and threatened global trade. Over 100,000 civilians have been uprooted inside Yemen, while others have risked sea crossings to flee the violence.
The United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, has reported that over 3,000 people have fled across the Red Sea to Djibouti in just one week. The agency is bracing for a significant rise in numbers, especially after mid-October when sea conditions are expected to improve. UNHCR spokesman Babar Baloch stated that the agency is planning for over 10,000 arrivals in Djibouti in the coming months.
The conflict in Yemen has also led to a significant increase in internal displacement, with over 130,000 people displaced so far. The UNHCR warns that this number could swell to over 230,000 people, adding to the over 5.2 million people already internally displaced in Yemen before the fighting reignited. The renewed conflict has deepened an already dire crisis, with an estimated 22 million people requiring humanitarian assistance.
The UNHCR has appealed for urgent funding to respond to the emergency, with the agency's Yemen operation currently only 18% funded for 2026. The agency estimates that $25 million is needed to provide immediate aid to around 231,000 people. The Djibouti operations are also underfunded, with the agency appealing for $13.5 million to ensure arrivals can access essential services.
The conflict in Yemen has been marked by a dramatic offensive by the Iran-backed Houthis, who seized control of Yemen's Red Sea coastline earlier this month. The offensive has left hundreds dead and threatened global trade, with energy prices also rising. The Saudi civil defence has issued a warning for a province on the Yemen border, while Yemen's leader has requested help from US President Trump.
The humanitarian crisis in Yemen has been exacerbated by a severe funding shortfall, with the UNHCR's response hampered by a lack of funds. The agency has warned that the crisis will worsen if funding is not forthcoming. The conflict has also had regional implications, with Saudi King Salman condemning the Houthis as a "terrorist militia" in a rare statement.
The UNHCR's warning of a potential influx of over 10,000 refugees into Djibouti highlights the growing humanitarian crisis in the region. The agency is working to provide aid and assistance to those affected, but requires urgent funding to respond to the emergency. The conflict in Yemen shows no signs of abating, with the potential for further displacement and humanitarian suffering.
Key points
- The UNHCR is planning for over 10,000 arrivals in Djibouti in the coming months.
- The number of people displaced within Yemen could swell to over 230,000.
- The UNHCR's Yemen operation is currently only 18% funded for 2026.
