Yemen: Houthis launch missiles in Amran and Sadah May 5

Event

Houthi movement rebels reportedly launched two ballistic missiles from Sana'a on Tuesday, May 5, and landed in Amran and Sadah. No casualties were immediately reported. The missile attack was launched despite the ceasefire initiated by the Saudi-led coalition due to the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic affecting both Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

Further Houthi-led attacks are possible over the near term despite the ceasefire.

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.