Yemen: Saudi-led coalition destroys presidency building in Sana’a May 7

Event

The Saudi-led coalition launched airstrikes on the presidency building in Sana'a on Monday, May 7, killing at least six people and wounding 30 others. The presidency building was reportedly destroyed and adjacent buildings were severely damaged by the airstrikes. Saudi-led coalition spokesman Colonel Turki al-Maliki reported that the strikes targeted Houthi rebel leaders; local health officials claimed that the six reportedly killed in the airstrikes were civilians. The death toll from the strikes may increase in the coming hours and days, as many people were believed to be trapped under the rubble. Further Saudi-led coalition airstrikes are expected in Yemen, including in Sana'a, in the near-term.

Context

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.

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.