Yemen: Anti-government protests possible in Aden amid call for uprising

Event

The Southern Transitional Council (STC), backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), called for a public uprising against the Yemeni government in Aden and other government-controlled provinces on Wednesday, October 3. Increased security measures have been implemented near government buildings in the city; associated traffic disruptions can be anticipated. Associated protests are possible.

Context

Protests have been staged nationwide in recent weeks denouncing the Yemeni government as well as the Saudi- and UAE-led Arab coalition, amid deteriorating economic and living conditions making life in the country increasingly difficult. Since the beginning of the civil war in 2015, the Yemeni rial has lost half of its value. This devaluation, combined with a drop in imports caused in part by the siege of Al-Hudaydah, has led to a sharp increase in commodity prices of 30 to 40 percent.

Yemen is engaged in a complex and deadly conflict, ongoing since Houthi rebels entered into a civil war with the Yemeni government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition, in 2015. The Saudi-led coalition has carried out thousands of airstrikes in Yemen since its intervention began. Hundreds of Yemeni civilians have been killed in the strikes, which have hit schools, hospitals, and markets, in addition to Houthi militant positions and personnel. In total, more than 10,000 Yemenis have died in the fighting and some 3 million have been displaced. The UN has labeled the situation in Yemen as the world's worst humanitarian crisis of 2018.

Advice

Individuals in Yemen are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Most Western governments advise against all travel to Yemen due to the ongoing war. 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.