OCHA Yemen Flash Update: Escalating conflict, 28 March 2015

Conflict has escalated significantly in Yemen since 23 March, affecting 11 of Yemen’s 22 Governorates.

Armed clashes erupted mainly in Lahj, Al Dhale’e and Aden Governorates following an expansion southward by Houthi-affiliated militants.

Early on 26 March, a coalition led by Saudi Arabia launched air strikes against Houthi targets, focusing primarily on Sana’a and Sa’ada Governorates. As of 28 March, air strikes were continuing against Houthi targets, and heavy clashes were ongoing in Al Dhale’e and Aden Governorates.

The Health Cluster estimates that 267 people were killed and 994 injured by violence in Yemen between 20 and 26 March. This figure includes 143 people killed and 382 injured by suicide attacks on two mosques in Sana’a on 20 March. Casualty figures are estimates based on hospital treatment data. Reports from local sources indicate significant additional casualties in the south – particularly Aden and Al Dhale’e, where heavy fighting continues. No overall estimates since 26 March are currently available.

Local reports indicate increasing displacement due to conflict. In the north, 300 families have reportedly fled Sa’ada for Haradh. Displacement has also reportedly occurred from conflict-affected areas of Al Dhale’e into neighbouring Districts. In Sana’a, several local sources report large numbers of people leaving town to stay with relatives outside the city. An assessment by the Yemen Red Crescent (YRC) in the Bani Hawat neighbourhood of Sana’a found that 40 of 120 families had been displaced following airstrikes. Airstrikes have affected other areas of the city, but Bani Hawat is the only neighbourhood assessed to date.

Recent violence has raised grave protection concerns. In Aden, street fighting reportedly continues in several areas – particularly following the looting of weapons from military bases. Minors have been reported to be taking part in hostilities on all sides. In the north, airstrikes have affected several residential areas, including a market in Sa’adah city and the Bani Hawat neighbourhood of Sana’a, where YRC estimates 36 homes were damaged or destroyed.

Response efforts are underway, but are severely constrained by conflict and insecurity. YRC is assisting evacuation of casualties to hospitals and supporting immediate treatment. In the south,
Health Cluster partners continue to support local hospitals in Aden, Lahj and Al Dhale’e. Reports indicate that people face difficulties in accessing hospitals due to a lack of transport, money and security. More details on ongoing response will be available as incoming reports are collated.
The Yemen Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) remains present in-country and continues to implement critical programmes. Some international staff have been temporarily relocated as a precaution. However, the HCT continues to operate with a core team of international staff, Yemeni staff and through partnerships with local organizations.

OCHA will issue a full Situation Report in the coming days.