Archive · 12 Sep 2026
Houthi Offensive Displaces Nearly 50,000 Along Yemen’s Red Sea Coast
Fighting has become worse in western Yemen.
Houthi forces captured several towns near the Red Sea.
This caused about 46,000 people to leave their homes.
Many families had to flee quickly and could bring very little with them.
Some people have already been forced to move two or three times.
Roads and communications were disrupted by the fighting.
Families need places to sleep, food, water and medical care.
Aid workers are worried that the conflict could grow even larger.
The UN International Organization for Migration said around 46,000 people were displaced across Taiz and Hodeidah governorates.
The Houthi movement captured several towns along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, including the port city of Mocha.
Fighting, airstrikes, shelling and disrupted roads forced civilians to flee with few belongings.
Many displaced families have reportedly been forced from their homes for a second or third time.
Aid workers said civilians urgently need shelter, food, clean water, healthcare, cash assistance and other supplies.
- Who
- Nearly 46,000 civilians, Houthi forces, forces supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government, and aid workers including the International Organization for Migration.
- What
- A rapid Houthi offensive captured several Red Sea coastal towns and displaced nearly 50,000 people.
- When
- The escalation occurred during the week before September 12, 2026; the International Organization for Migration reported the displacement on Friday.
- Where
- Western Yemen, particularly Taiz and Hodeidah governorates, including the Red Sea port city of Mocha.
- Why
- Civilians fled because of renewed frontline fighting, airstrikes, shelling and unsafe or disrupted travel routes.
- Reported displacement
- Around 46,000 people across Taiz and Hodeidah governorates, described as nearly 50,000.
- Main force advancing
- The Iran-backed Houthi movement.
- Captured city
- Mocha, a historic Red Sea port.
- Humanitarian needs
- Temporary shelter, food, clean water, healthcare, cash assistance and other basic supplies.
- Displacement pattern
- Many residents have been forced to flee for the second or third time.
- Reported casualties
- Hundreds were reported to have died in the renewed fighting.
- Key warning
- The escalation has raised fears of a broader new phase in Yemen’s civil war.