Yemen: Saudi-led coalition extends ceasefire by one month from April 24 /update 1

Event

On Friday, April 24, the Saudi-led coalition fighting Houthi rebels in Yemen extended a ceasefire by one month. Originally announced on Thursday, April 9, the ceasefire was intended to allow the Houthis to join UN-backed peace talks with Yemen's internationally-recognized government, and to allow the country to address the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The Houthis did not accept the ceasefire when it was originally announced, which resulted in continued clashes between coalition and rebel forces, and accusations of ceasefire violations.

Context

Yemen is engaged in a complex and deadly conflict, ongoing since Houthi rebels entered 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.

Advice

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.