The International Federation for Rights and Development (IFRD) expresses grave concern that Yemen is entering a dangerous new phase of conflict, marked by rapidly shifting lines of control in the south and east, and intensifying tensions among armed and political actors who are nominally aligned within the anti-Houthi camp. Recent developments—particularly the swift takeover of Hadramawt and Al-Mahra by STC-aligned forces earlier this month—risk undermining Yemen’s already fragile truce and reigniting widespread hostilities with serious consequences for civilians and regional stability.
IFRD is equally alarmed by emerging humanitarian impacts, including new displacement flows from affected areas and warnings of rising protection risks and strain on basic services. Reports citing humanitarian coordination updates indicate that more than 1,200 families have been newly displaced from Hadramawt to Marib as of 21 December 2025, with urgent needs related to shelter, protection, health, and access to services.
IFRD recalls that all parties to the conflict—state forces and non-state armed actors alike—are bound by International Humanitarian Law (IHL), including the 1949 Geneva Conventions and customary IHL. These obligations are immediate and non-derogable.
IFRD calls on all involved parties to:
- Immediately de-escalate and refrain from hostilities in populated areas that foreseeably endanger civilians.
- Uphold the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precautions, and end any indiscriminate attacks, retaliatory violence, or coercive measures targeting communities.
- Guarantee safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access, including for medical care, food, water, and protection services—without political or military interference.
- Ensure any civilian movements or “corridors” are voluntary, safe, clearly communicated, and protected, and that civilians who remain are fully protected and never treated as leverage.
- Support independent documentation and accountability for alleged violations, including transparent investigations consistent with international standards.
IFRD urges regional and international stakeholders with influence on parties inside Yemen to prioritize civilian protection, prevent further fragmentation, and support a credible political pathway that addresses Yemen’s unity, governance, and local autonomy questions without resort to violence.
