Yemen: Saudi coalition airstrikes kill dozens in Saada August 9

Event

On Thursday, August 9, the Saudi-led coalition launched airstrikes on the province of Saada. According to the local health department, at least 43 people were killed and more than 60 others were wounded. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the majority of the victims were children. Additional coalition airstrikes are likely over the coming days and weeks.

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, killing hundreds of civilians. In total, more than 10,000 Yemenis have died since the beginning of the civil war and some 2 million have been displaced.

Advice

The security environment in Yemen remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.