18,500 displaced as fighting intensifies across Yemen coast

ADEN, Yemen (MNTV) — About 18,500 people have been displaced in just 72 hours as renewed fighting spreads across Yemen’s western coast, the International Organization for Migration said.

IOM reported that hostilities have intensified since Sept. 3 in parts of Taiz and Hodeidah, with civilians reportedly among those killed and injured. The agency warned that displacement is continuing to increase as families flee renewed violence.

IOM Yemen Chief of Mission Abdusattor Esoev said many displaced families were arriving without shelter, food or reliable information about whether it was safe to return. 

Some families may also be unable to leave frontline areas because of continuing clashes and insecurity along routes used to escape.

The latest escalation has renewed concerns over Yemen’s fragile humanitarian situation after years of conflict and repeated waves of displacement. 

IOM said some affected families have already been displaced multiple times and risk losing what little they had managed to rebuild.

The agency also expressed concern for migrants traveling through Yemen’s eastern route, who could become stranded or trapped as security conditions deteriorate and movement restrictions increase.

IOM said humanitarian supplies are running low as needs expand rapidly, while access to affected communities remains difficult. 

It called on all parties to protect civilians, provide safe passage for people fleeing violence and allow humanitarian organizations to reach those in need.