Alarming Statistics from Yemeni Rights Network

A Yemeni human rights network has reported an alarming number of violations against women, documenting over 10,000 cases attributed to Houthi militias over the past seven years. The report, released by the Yemeni Network for Rights and Freedoms, highlights the serious impact of ongoing conflict on women’s rights in Yemen.

Breakdown of Violations

From September 21, 2016, to March 1, 2024, the network recorded 10,156 violations against women across 17 Yemeni provinces. These provinces include Al Hudaydah, Al Dhale’e, Taiz, Hajjah, Dhamar, Lahij, Marib, Raymah, Shabwa, Ibb, Abyan, the Capital City of Sana’a, Al Bayda, Al Jawf, Saada, Sana’a, Aden, and Amran.

Fatalities and Injuries

The report details 2,786 cases of women killed due to various forms of violence, including artillery shelling, sniper attacks, and indiscriminate gunfire. Additionally, 1,274 women lost their lives from landmine explosions planted by the Houthis in public streets, residential neighborhoods, and farms. The report also documented 46 other killings in nine provinces, involving stabbing, running over, or physical assaults.

The province of Taiz recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 1,802 cases, followed by Al Hudaydah with 419 cases and Aden with 158 cases. Other affected provinces included Lahij, Marib, and Al Jawf.

Impact of Bombardment

The network also reported 4,369 injuries among women due to systematic bombardments by Houthi militias. These attacks targeted residential areas, markets, and public gatherings using ballistic missiles, Katyusha rockets, mortars, and heavy machine guns. Many women faced danger even in their homes, with projectiles penetrating walls and causing injuries in kitchens and bedrooms.

Landmine Casualties

Furthermore, 1,234 women suffered injuries from landmines and explosive devices. Many of these injuries resulted in permanent disabilities, with 475 cases leading to long-term impairments.

Abductions and Torture

The report reveals that Houthi militias have abducted and detained 447 women, with 69 of them taken to secret prisons where they experienced enforced disappearances. Among these, 78 women faced various forms of torture, including fabricated charges that compromised their dignity.

Call for International Action

The Yemeni Network for Rights and Freedoms urges the international community, including the United Nations and its Secretary-General, to take immediate action against these violations. They demand an end to the crimes perpetrated by Houthi militias and call for a transparent and urgent investigation into human rights abuses, holding those responsible accountable according to international law and humanitarian standards.

This report sheds light on the urgent need for intervention to protect the rights of Yemeni women amidst ongoing conflict and violence.

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