A renewed escalation in the Yemeni civil war has triggered a mass exodus of civilians, as thousands of families flee the coastal region for the relative safety of Djibouti. The United Nations estimates that recent surges in violence have displaced more than 120,000 people, with over 3,000 refugees arriving at the Markazi camp in Obock within the last few days alone.
The conflict has intensified as Houthi forces push toward the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical maritime chokepoint. In response, Saudi-backed pro-government forces have conducted extensive airstrikes, while Houthi fighters have targeted Saudi infrastructure with drones and missiles. For many refugees, the decision to leave was driven by the constant threat of aerial bombardment. Ibrahim Issa, a fisherman from the coastal town of Dhubab, described the terror of his children at the sound of aircraft, stating, "That is why we fled, to save them."
The refugees arriving in Djibouti often carry only minimal belongings, with some having traveled by boat across the strait before continuing their journey by truck or on foot. While Djibouti remains a neutral party in the conflict, it hosts a significant international military presence, including bases for the United States and China. Despite the harsh conditions at the Markazi camp, many displaced Yemenis express a desire to remain until the violence subsides.
The current instability marks a significant breakdown of a 2022 UN-brokered truce between the Houthis and Saudi-led forces. As the fighting continues, the humanitarian toll grows, leaving many families uncertain about their future. Aisha Abdulkadir Mohammed, a refugee at the camp, emphasized that their primary hope is for a return to stability, noting, "We are willing to go back in peace if peace returns to our country."
Source: BBC News
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