Yemen fighting displaces 112,000 internally; nearly 3,000 reach Djibouti by sea

Reuters reported on September 18 that the International Organization for Migration estimated about 112,000 people had been displaced inside Yemen and nearly 3,000 had reached Djibouti by sea. The estimates may change as movement continues.

Relief operations face fighting, damaged roads and infrastructure, disrupted communications and movement restrictions. Displaced families risk shortages of shelter, food, clean water and medical care, while sea departures add further safety concerns.

Djibouti authorities and aid agencies are preparing for as many as 10,000 arrivals. The sea journey carries its own risks, while people who arrive require shelter, food, water and medical support.

Security around Bab al-Mandab, the entrance to the Red Sea, is also under scrutiny. Residents, travellers, aid organizations and shipping operators should use UN, humanitarian, port and maritime-security notices and plan for rerouting or delays.