Houthi Sniper Attacks on Taiz Civilians Persist for Over a Decade

Ongoing Violence Against Civilians in Taiz

Escalating Attacks on Civilians

Every day in Taiz, Yemen, new crimes against civilians unfold as Houthi militias continue their direct sniper operations, artillery shelling, and drone strikes. This military escalation, compounded by an enduring blockade, has persisted for over eleven years, exacerbating the suffering of the local population.

Systematic Targeting of Innocents

The Houthi militias have transformed residential neighborhoods, roads, and areas surrounding schools and homes into zones of danger. Children, women, and the elderly are subjected to targeted attacks during their daily routines, whether they are playing or hanging laundry on rooftops. This systematic targeting underscores a flagrant disregard for civilian lives and their fundamental rights.

In the early months of 2026, a series of sniper attacks in the city and its outskirts resulted in the deaths and injuries of nine children and women in neighborhoods such as Al-Asifrah, Sala, Al-Kamb, Al-Shuqab, and Al-Kalabah. Civilians have also faced casualties while returning from schools or accessing essential services like water.

Taiz: The Most Affected Province

Human rights reports confirm that Taiz is the most affected province in Yemen due to Houthi sniper crimes. A report from the Yemeni Women’s Empowerment Foundation (YWEF) reveals that sniper operations between 2015 and 2025 have resulted in:

• 2,730 civilian deaths.
• Over 800 injuries, primarily among women and children.

The Al-Shuqab area in the Sabir Al-Mawadim district has emerged as one of the most targeted regions, recording approximately 300 casualties over the past few years.

International Silence and Widespread Criticism

Human rights activists and journalists have criticized the silence of the United Nations and international organizations regarding these crimes. They argue that ignoring these violations emboldens the militia to continue targeting civilians without fear of repercussions. This silence reflects a troubling lack of concern from the international community for the suffering of the people in Taiz.

Calls for the Liberation of the Province

Politicians and observers are urging the need to complete the liberation of Taiz and end the blockade, viewing it as the only viable solution to halt the sniper crimes that have turned civilian life into a daily nightmare. Liberating the city would restore hope to its residents and ensure them the dignified life they deserve.