Airstrikes on Yemen

1. Airstrikes on Yemen

The airstrikes on Yemen refer to the military operations conducted by a coalition of countries led by Saudi Arabia, which began in March 2015. These airstrikes are part of the ongoing Yemeni Civil War, a complex conflict involving multiple factions, including the Houthi movement, the internationally recognized Yemeni government, and various other groups.

Background

The conflict in Yemen escalated significantly in 2014 when the Houthi movement, a group with roots in the Zaidi Shia community, took control of the Yemeni capital, Sana'a. In response to the Houthi advance, a coalition of Arab states, led by Saudi Arabia and supported by the United Arab Emirates, launched a military intervention in March 2015. The coalition's stated goal was to restore the government of President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi.

Objectives of the Airstrikes

The primary objectives of the coalition airstrikes have been to:

• Deter the Houthi movement and their allies from advancing further into southern Yemen.
• Restore the internationally recognized government of President Hadi.
• Counter the influence of Iran, which is alleged to support the Houthis.

Impact on Yemen

The airstrikes have had a profound impact on Yemen, contributing to what the United Nations has described as one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Key impacts include:

• **Civilian Casualties**: Thousands of civilians have been killed or injured as a result of the airstrikes, with numerous reports of strikes hitting non-military targets such as markets, hospitals, and schools.
• **Infrastructure Damage**: Critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and ports, has been severely damaged, exacerbating the humanitarian situation.
• **Humanitarian Crisis**: The conflict has led to widespread food insecurity, displacement, and outbreaks of diseases such as cholera.

International Response

The international community has been divided in its response to the airstrikes. While some countries have supported the coalition's efforts, others have criticized the conduct of the airstrikes and called for investigations into alleged violations of international humanitarian law.

Efforts for Peace

Numerous attempts have been made to broker peace in Yemen, including talks facilitated by the United Nations. Despite these efforts, a lasting resolution to the conflict has remained elusive.

Also see

• Yemeni Civil War (2014–present)
• Houthi movement
• Saudi Arabian-led intervention in Yemen
• Humanitarian crisis in Yemen
• Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict