UN condemns attempted Houthi strike on Riyadh as Yemen displacement surges past 130,000
The UN condemned Houthi cross-border attacks on Saudi Arabia, including an attempted strike on Riyadh, as Yemen’s displacement crisis surpasses 130,000 people amid escalating fighting.
The United Nations condemned continued Houthi cross-border attacks against Saudi Arabia, including an attempted strike on the capital Riyadh, describing the strikes as targeting civilians and energy infrastructure. UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric reiterated condemnation during a briefing, expressing deep concern over military escalation in and around Yemen, particularly Houthi offensives against Saudi-backed forces in Ta’iz, Lahj and Marib. The UN called on all parties to exercise restraint and comply with international humanitarian law, including protections for civilians and civilian infrastructure.
The escalation follows intensified clashes between Saudi-backed Yemeni Government forces and Iran-backed Houthi militia, with Houthi forces seizing territory near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical shipping chokepoint. Saudi Arabia has conducted hundreds of airstrikes in response, while the Houthis have launched drone and missile attacks in southwestern Saudi Arabia. Nearly 130,000 people have been displaced across Yemen in recent weeks, with displacement figures rising rapidly according to the International Organization for Migration.
Displacement has surged in Ta’iz, Lahj, Aden and Al Hodeidah, with over 21,000 households displaced across the country since early August alone. More than 3,100 people have crossed the Red Sea to Djibouti amid the escalation, adding to a decade of conflict that had already displaced 4.8 million Yemenis. Health facilities in conflict areas have been damaged or closed, with hospitals facing shortages of critical supplies including blood, anaesthesia and surgical materials.
Humanitarian agencies report severe challenges in delivering aid due to insecurity, damaged roads, telecommunications disruptions and port damage. Nearly 13,000 displaced households have received rapid response kits, while the World Health Organization has delivered medical supplies to hospitals in Aden and Marib. The UN reiterated calls for parties to protect civilians and allow unimpeded humanitarian access amid funding shortfalls and access constraints.