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Houthis’ monthlong siege on Taiz creating hell for trapped Yemenis
A month-long Houthi siege has cut Taiz off from key routes, leaving residents and travellers struggling to reach the city. The blockade has disrupted access to food, medicine, fuel and water, while the United Nations has warned that shortages could lead to a catastrophe.
The siege began after Houthi forces took al-Turbah, closing Taiz’s main route to Aden and the outside world. The article says it affects 1.5 million people in Taiz City and people in surrounding rural districts, including about 180,000 displaced people. Roads and checkpoints have also separated families, and rubbish is accumulating because it cannot be taken to landfill outside the city.
In short
- Taiz has been under Houthi siege for 30 days.
- Food, medicine, fuel and water supplies are being disrupted.
- About 180,000 displaced people are also trapped by clashes.
Explained simply
Taiz is a major city in south-western Yemen, a country that has been divided by a long-running conflict between the Houthi movement and forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognised government. The Houthis control much of the north, while rival forces hold areas including parts of the south.
Taiz’s links to Aden and other areas matter because they carry essential supplies and connect families and communities. Displaced people who have fled fighting are among those relying on the city’s services, while shortages of food, medicine, fuel and water can affect residents across the surrounding districts.