Ministers review Houthi militia violations in Taiz and demand international action to classify it as a terrorist organization.

Ministers Highlight Houthi Violations in Taiz, Call for International Action

A group of ministers held a press conference today in the temporary capital of Aden, addressing the violations faced by Taiz Governorate due to the blockade imposed by the Iranian-backed Houthi militias. They condemned the ongoing shelling of civilian areas and residential neighborhoods, urging the international community to take a firm stance and classify the Houthis as a terrorist organization.

Human Rights Violations Documented

Minister of Human Rights, Mashdal Mohammed, stated that the ministry monitors violations committed by Houthi militias against civilians in Taiz through its specialized departments and field observers. The ministry collects information, reports, and documents evidence and testimonies to identify responsibilities and enhance accountability efforts.

Since early September 2026, the ministry has recorded over 170 incidents targeting civilians, including rocket and artillery shelling and sniper attacks. These incidents resulted in the deaths of 73 civilians and injuries to 223 others, totaling 296 civilian casualties. Additionally, more than 80 homes and civilian facilities suffered damage, with four homes completely destroyed.

Escalating Humanitarian Crisis

The minister noted that violations also included arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance of 130 individuals, along with home raids that terrorized residents. This situation represents a severe infringement on their basic rights, security, and safety. The military escalation and blockade have exacerbated the displacement crisis.

According to data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, over 250,000 people have been displaced since the escalation began, with approximately 76 percent originating from Taiz. The humanitarian needs for shelter, food, and healthcare continue to rise.

Restrictions on Movement and Infrastructure Damage

The Houthis have tightened restrictions on citizens’ movement, closing more than seven main and secondary crossings. They have obstructed the transport of patients and the delivery of medical, food, fuel, and gas supplies. On October 18, they detonated parts of the Heijjat al-Abd road, causing significant damage to the road’s infrastructure. Furthermore, they established illegal checkpoints and armed barriers at the Al-Habashi junction. Previous ministry reports indicate that over 4,700 children have been recruited by Houthi militias since 2015, including at least 100 children during the military escalation in September 2026.

Health Sector Under Siege

Dr. Qassem Baheeb, Minister of Public Health and Population, discussed the damage inflicted on the health sector due to Houthi attacks. The official assessment included 282 hospitals and health facilities, with one facility completely destroyed and 25 sustaining partial damage. Additionally, 256 facilities were seized.

He added that medical services have completely or partially ceased in 186 health facilities, with 120 facilities fully closed and 66 partially closed. The seizure of 15 ambulances and obstruction of medical supply deliveries further complicate the situation. The targeting of an ambulance in Taiz represents one of the severe violations against the health sector.

Humanitarian Response Efforts

Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, Mukhtar Al-Yafai, outlined the ministry’s efforts to address the humanitarian consequences in Taiz. These efforts focus on three main areas: coordinating and supervising interventions by organizations and institutions, monitoring displacement and documenting damages and violations, and identifying humanitarian needs in the most affected areas. The ministry also aims to mobilize aid and strengthen partnerships with local and international entities to ensure support reaches those in need.

He noted that civilian violations in Taiz amounted to 494 incidents, with 22 local organizations and institutions, in collaboration with their partners and in coordination with ministry offices and local authorities, providing 10,634 food baskets to affected families.

Call for International Action

Minister of Legal Affairs, Judge Ishraq Al-Maqatari, emphasized that Houthi practices reveal the terrorist nature of the militias. She called for a decisive international stance to classify them as a banned terrorist organization, halt their arms and funding sources, and hold accountable those responsible for crimes and violations against civilians.

Al-Maqatari pointed out that damages affected 56 residential facilities, 12 educational institutions, eight health facilities, and ten roads and bridges, in addition to other properties and service facilities. She praised the positions of local authorities and the people of Aden, Lahij, and other governorates for their support of Taiz and its residents.

Ongoing Humanitarian Needs

Governor of Taiz, Nabil Shamsan, described the dire humanitarian conditions in the governorate amid ongoing shelling and blockade. He highlighted the impact on villages and residential areas, particularly in the Al-Sabr region, which faces rocket attacks.

He reported that field monitoring from August 10 to October 15, 2026, recorded approximately 19,600 families among new waves of displacement from the governorate’s districts. The blockade on supply lines connecting Taiz with Lahij and Aden has worsened the humanitarian situation and complicated the movement of citizens and essential needs.

Shamsan confirmed that the governorate faces a growing displacement crisis and increasing humanitarian needs, with the number of displaced families from Taiz exceeding previous estimates.

Regional Solidarity Against Houthi Actions

In a related context, Governor of Lahij, Murad Al-Halimi, noted that Houthi militias continue to perpetrate acts of repression and intimidation against citizens, including the bombing of mosques and the displacement of residents. He emphasized the importance of enhancing solidarity and coordination among governorates to address the humanitarian and security repercussions of ongoing escalation.

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