Yemen Conflict: Causes, History, and current situation

Yemen is currently experiencing one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, marked by a protracted civil war that has lasted for over nine years. The ongoing conflict has devastated the nation’s socioeconomic systems, leading to widespread violence, displacement, and vulnerability to climate shocks. Approximately 80% of Yemen’s population of 32.6 million lives below the poverty line, struggling to survive amidst extreme hunger and malnutrition.

History of the Yemen Conflict

Pre-2011: Background

• 1990: Yemen is unified, creating the Republic of Yemen from North and South Yemen.
• 1994: A brief civil war reinforces central government authority but leads to lingering discontent.

2011: Arab Spring and Political Unrest

• January 2011: Inspired by the Arab Spring, protests erupt against President Ali Abdullah Saleh, demanding political reforms and an end to corruption.
• November 2011: Saleh resigns after a GCC-brokered deal, leading to a weak transitional government.

2014: Houthi Takeover

• September 2014: The Houthi movement seizes control of Sana’a, citing government corruption and mismanagement.
• January 2015: President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi flees to Saudi Arabia, marking the start of an intense power struggle.

2015: Escalation of Conflict

• March 2015: A Saudi-led coalition intervenes militarily to restore Hadi’s government, igniting a full-scale civil war.
• June 2015: The conflict leads to widespread devastation, with millions facing hunger and a lack of basic services.

2016-2019: Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

• 2016: A cholera outbreak affects over 1 million people, compounded by a blockade restricting vital supplies.
• 2018: The UN reports that 22 million people require humanitarian assistance, with 8 million at risk of famine.

2020-Present: Ongoing Struggles

• 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates poverty and food insecurity.
• 2022: A UN-brokered truce offers hope, though clashes persist.
• 2023: Disruptions to maritime trade in the Red Sea complicate relief efforts.

What is happening in Yemen today?

As of October 2023, the Houthi movement has disrupted commercial shipping in the Red Sea, a critical global trade route, prompting increased military presence from the United States and the United Kingdom. The civil war continues to inflict severe hardships on Yemen's population, with ongoing access issues to basic necessities. Yemen ranks as one of the poorest countries in the Middle East, with millions facing extreme hunger and the threat of water scarcity.

Impact of conflict on civilians

The conflict, initially expected to last only weeks, has resulted in immense suffering for Yemenis. Over 377,000 lives have been lost, and around 4.5 million people have been displaced. Currently, 21 million Yemenis require humanitarian assistance, with 17 million experiencing extreme hunger. The destruction of infrastructure complicates access to basic needs.

Lack Access to Basic Necessities

The crisis in Yemen extends beyond conflict, with severe deprivation and lack of essential services leading to regular outbreaks of preventable diseases. Approximately 9.8 million children require various forms of assistance, lacking access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services.

Emaan Relief's Impact in Yemen

In the face of turmoil, Emaan Relief is committed to providing both immediate and long-term support to alleviate suffering in Yemen. Our upcoming Yemen deployment in October 2024 will focus on supporting orphans and widows, distributing Zakat, and implementing livelihood projects to empower families. Additionally, our efforts include vital support for children suffering from malnutrition. Your donations have already enabled us to deliver essential assistance and medical care. Donate now to transform more lives and offer hope to those struggling in Yemen.

Allahسُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى  says in Qur’an:

“Indeed, those who have believed and emigrated and fought with their wealth and lives in the cause of Allāh and those who gave shelter and aided - they are allies of one another.”

[Surah Al-Anfal,Ayah 72]

Conclusion

The ongoing crisis in Yemen represents one of the most pressing humanitarian challenges of our time, with millions suffering from the effects of prolonged conflict and severe deprivation. Immediate action and support are crucial to address the urgent needs of the Yemeni population, especially vulnerable children. With Emaan Relief You can provide essential assistance and hope to our brother and sister in Yemen. Together, we can work towards alleviating the suffering and rebuilding lives in Yemen.