Yemen's Human Rights Ministry has strongly condemned the Houthi militia's attack on Aden International Airport, describing it as a dangerous assault on a vital civilian facility. The ministry stated that the attack, which involved ballistic missiles and explosive drones, put the lives of passengers, airport workers, and flight crews at risk. The attack occurred when two ballistic missiles and explosive drones targeted the airport, with one missile landing near the runway just minutes before a Yemenia Airlines flight from Cairo was set to arrive.

The ministry noted that the attack also endangered the lives of passengers waiting for a flight to Jeddah and airport staff. The incident was described as a potential humanitarian disaster. The ministry emphasized that targeting Aden airport and its facilities constitutes a blatant violation of civilian infrastructure and a direct threat to aviation safety. This attack also jeopardizes the lives of civilians and undermines their right to life, security, and freedom of movement.

The Human Rights Ministry highlighted that the attack contravenes international humanitarian law, which prohibits targeting civilians and civilian objects. The ministry stressed that repeated attacks on the airport demonstrate a continued assault on civilian infrastructure and a disregard for human life. This necessitates effective and decisive action to prevent such attacks from recurring. The ministry called on the international community, human rights organizations, and civil aviation authorities to condemn the attack unequivocally and take a firm stance against the repeated aggression targeting civilian facilities in Yemen.

The ministry urged the UN Security Council and the United Nations to take practical steps to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. They also demanded that pressure be exerted on the Houthi militia to halt its attacks, which threaten the lives of civilians and the safety of vital facilities. The ministry emphasized the need to hold all those responsible for the attack accountable and ensure that perpetrators do not escape punishment.

In a related development, Yemen's Transport Ministry condemned the targeting of the Aden airport's runway and passenger terminal. The ministry described the attack as a serious escalation and a flagrant violation of international laws and norms. They affirmed that they will continue to take all necessary measures to enhance the security and safety of airports and air navigation.

The Transport Ministry emphasized that Aden International Airport will remain a civilian gateway open to Yemenis and travelers. The ministry's statement underscores the Yemeni government's commitment to protecting its infrastructure and ensuring the safety of its citizens and visitors. The attack on Aden airport has significant implications for the country's aviation sector and the safety of its citizens.

The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by Yemen and the need for the international community to support efforts to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. The Yemeni government's condemnation of the attack reflects its commitment to upholding international law and protecting its citizens. The international community is urged to take a firm stance against such attacks and support efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.

Key points

  • The Houthi militia's attack on Aden International Airport constitutes a serious violation of international law and a threat to civilian lives.
  • The Yemeni government has called on the international community to condemn the attack and take a firm stance against the repeated aggression targeting civilian facilities in Yemen.
  • The attack highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by Yemen and the need for the international community to support efforts to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.