Yemen: Saudi-led coalition strikes Sana’a Airport Nov. 14

Event

The Saudi-led coalition bombed Sana'a International Airport (SAH) in Yemen’s capital on Tuesday, November 14, in a bid to weaken rebel control of the city. According to the UN, the majority of the airport remains intact and will be able to receive aid shipments. However, rebel groups contradicted the UN claim, noting that the runway and navigation tower were damaged during the bombing.

Despite a November 13 statement indicating that the coalition would soon lift its blockade (put in place on November 6) on all Yemeni land, sea, and air ports, the majority of the country's ports of entry remain closed. It is unclear when the blockade is expected to fully lift.

Context

Yemen has been engaged in a complex and deadly conflict since Houthi rebels started fighting the international coalition-backed government in 2015. In total, approximately 10,000 Yemenis have died in the fighting and over 3 million have been displaced. The war has also sparked a cholera outbreak, which has affected over 755,000 people to date.

Advice

Individuals are advised to defer all travel to Yemen until further notice. The security environment throughout the country remains complex. Due to poor security conditions, many Western governments strongly advise their citizens against all travel to Yemen. Travel to the country should only be considered with proper security protocols in place. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.