The United Nations has warned of a significant escalation in displacement and refugee numbers in Yemen due to renewed fighting. According to Babar Baloch, UN Refugee Agency Global Spokesman, the number of refugees fleeing across the Red Sea to Djibouti could increase from 3,000 to 10,000 in the coming months. This warning comes as the conflict in Yemen continues to intensify, causing humanitarian concerns.
The UN refugee agency is planning for more than 10,000 arrivals in Djibouti, amid growing concerns about the humanitarian situation in Yemen. The number of internally displaced people in Yemen is expected to swell from over 130,000 to more than 230,000 in the coming months. This significant increase in displacement and refugee numbers highlights the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region.
The conflict in Yemen has seen a recent surge in violence, with the Houthis seizing control of a crucial strait and launching attacks on Saudi Arabia. A deadly strike on a key port city was reported, and the Houthis have been accused of cross-border strikes on Saudi Arabia. The G7 nations have called on the Houthis to halt these strikes, which have threatened global trade and pushed up energy prices.
The conflict has also had an impact on other countries in the region. China has expressed opposition to "illegal" US sanctions on Iranian airlines, which could have significant implications for the region. The US sanctions aim to ramp up pressure on Tehran, but China has slammed the measures as "illegal".
Saudi Arabia has also been affected by the conflict, with the civil defence agency issuing a warning of potential danger in the country's south. The alert was later lifted, but it highlights the ongoing security concerns in the region. The Saudi civil defence agency asked people to remain indoors and avoid open areas during the alert.
The conflict in Yemen has resulted in significant human losses, with over 150 people killed in the past two days. Military sources from both sides have reported deaths in the governorates of Taiz, Al-Jawf, Marib, and Saada. The fighting has also led to a significant displacement of people, with many forced to flee their homes.
The international community is closely watching the developments in Yemen, with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian vowing to "firmly defend" his country's positions at the UN General Assembly. The President's comments come as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in New York for the annual gathering of world leaders. France has also expressed readiness to help secure Saudi energy infrastructure targeted by Iran-backed Houthis.
Key points
- Over 230,000 people could be displaced within Yemen and 10,000 may flee to Djibouti.
