Continued Sniper Attacks on Civilians in Taiz: A Decade of Ongoing Violence

Daily Violence in Taiz

In the province of Taiz, daily life is overshadowed by violence as the Houthi militia relentlessly targets civilians. These attacks, which include sniper fire, artillery shelling, and drone strikes, occur amidst an eleven-year blockade on the city and the ongoing escalation of military activities.

Systematic Targeting of Civilians

The militia has systematically transformed residential neighborhoods, roads, and areas surrounding schools and homes into deadly zones. Vulnerable populations, including children, women, and the elderly, face significant threats as they engage in daily activities, whether playing outdoors or hanging laundry on rooftops.

Reports from early 2026 highlighted a series of sniper attacks within the city and its outskirts. Tragically, among the victims were nine children and women from neighborhoods such as Al-Asifrah, Sala, Al-Kamb, Al-Shuqab, and Al-Kalabah. Civilians have also suffered injuries or fatalities while returning from schools or seeking essential services like water.

Taiz: The Most Affected Province

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

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

The Al-Shuqab area in the Sabir Al-Mawadim district stands out as one of the most targeted regions, with approximately 300 casualties recorded in recent years.

International Silence and Calls for Action

Human rights activists and journalists have voiced strong criticism of the silence from the United Nations and international organizations regarding these ongoing crimes. They argue that this lack of attention emboldens the militia to continue its assaults on civilians.

In light of these dire circumstances, political figures and observers stress the urgent need to complete the liberation of Taiz and end the blockade. They believe that such actions are crucial to stopping the sniper attacks that have turned the lives of residents into a daily nightmare.

The situation in Taiz remains critical, with innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of a prolonged conflict. Immediate action is necessary to safeguard lives and restore peace in the region.