OCHA Yemen: Escalating Conflict Flash Update 5 | 7 April 2015 (10.00)

Overview

Airstrikes over the last 24 hours were reported in Sa’ada, Lahj, Abyan, Hajjah, Ibb, Sana’a, Aden, Taizz, Marib, Al Jawf, Dhamar, Amran, Shabwah, Al Bayda, Al Hudaydah and Al Dhale'e Governorates. A total of 14 out of 22 governorates have now been affected by airstrikes or armed conflict. In Sana’a, local sources report that a private water factory was damaged in Bani Matar District, killing four people. Also nine people were killed in Saqayn, Razih and Sahar districts in Sa’ada. In Ibb, six students were reportedly killed in a strike that hit Al Sabtain School in Ibb District. In Hajjah, several farms were bombarded in Midi District.

In the south, there are growing concerns over safety of health assets. Three ambulances operated by the Ministry of Public Health and Population were taken by armed forces in Aden on 1 to 2 April and used for non-medical purposes. Since violence escalated, three volunteers with the Yemen Red Crescent have been killed. Parties to the conflict have an obligation, under international humanitarian law and Geneva Conventions, to protect health facilities, staff and patients.