The four-month clashes between the Iran-backed Houthi movement and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government have intensified around the city of Taiz in southwestern Yemen. Yemeni officials have warned residents in the area to avoid sniper fire from the surrounding hills. Houthi forces have also largely blocked supply routes to Taiz, which is under the control of government forces.
Humanitarian Situation in Taiz
Taiz, the third-largest city in Yemen with a population of about one million, is facing a serious humanitarian crisis. According to the International Organization for Migration, around 134,000 people have been displaced in Taiz province. This province accounts for nearly half of the more than 319,000 displaced people in western Yemen. Niko Jafarania, a Yemen researcher at Human Rights Watch, said: "The Houthis have blocked the supply of fuel, water, and medical supplies, which essentially affects all the needs of hospitals." He added that even those who reach hospitals may not receive the necessary care.
Feeling of Fear and Solidarity Among Residents
Amar, a 45-year-old photographer in Taiz, stated that he witnesses fear among the people, but feels that "the determination not to surrender to the Houthis is very strong." Amina, the mother of a student in Taiz, said that "neighbors are sharing food shortages among themselves and helping each other, and many people in Taiz are refusing to flee."
Hanan, a mother of three, added that prices have skyrocketed and there is almost no gasoline, cooking gas, or drinking water left in the city. She also said: "This situation places an additional psychological burden on the people who hear the sounds of clashes day and night." However, she and other residents have decided to stay in the city.
Nabil Shamseddin, the governor of Taiz, announced that negotiations are underway to supply food, fuel, and water to the city. While it is unclear when and under what conditions this process will yield results, international aid organizations are deeply concerned about the situation.
Analysts emphasize that controlling Taiz is a key step and could give the Houthis a significant advantage in consolidating their control over northern Yemen. However, some believe that the Houthis do not need to capture Taiz to achieve their goals.
