The National Investigation Committee meets with victims of human rights violations in the villages of Al-Ahkoum, Taiz.

The National Committee for Investigating Allegations of Human Rights Violations conducted a field visit today to the villages of the Al-Ahkoum district in the Hifan Directorate, located in southern Taiz Governorate. This visit aimed to gather evidence regarding the violence and human rights abuses inflicted upon civilians by Houthi militia groups.

Field Visit Overview

The committee’s field visit included the villages of Najd, Al-Jirbah, Al-Akboush, Al-Marabda, and the central area of Al-Ahkoum. During this visit, committee members interviewed 64 victims and their families. These individuals shared their testimonies and complaints about the indiscriminate shelling and attacks that have devastated their communities, destroyed homes, and led to the loss of livestock. Additionally, the main water project, which has served the residents since the 1980s, has collapsed, severely impacting their daily lives and mobility.

Testimonies of Forced Displacement

Committee member Judge Ishraq Al-Maqtari and her research team listened to numerous accounts from victims of forced displacement. All 1,242 residents of Al-Akboush village, including women and children, have faced violence and intimidation, forcing them to live in displacement and hardship. The Houthi militia has occupied their homes, leading to widespread looting and the conversion of some residences into military barracks.

Ongoing Violence and Its Impact

Residents of Al-Ahkoum reported daily targeting, shelling, and sniper attacks affecting 12 neighborhoods within the district. The continuous violence has caused significant psychological and physical distress, particularly among women and children, leading to widespread fear and health issues.

Documentation of Violations

The committee’s team conducted interviews with five victims of arbitrary detention and four individuals affected by landmines planted by the Houthi militia. They documented the extensive landmining of agricultural areas in Al-Akboush and Al-Kaawash villages, which has prevented residents from farming and benefiting from their land since 2016.

Damage Assessment

The team also assessed the damage from artillery shelling and explosions that completely destroyed an educational complex consisting of four schools in Al-Akboush. This facility served students from Al-Ahkoum and parts of the Masharqa area, as well as villages from the Al-Maqatra Directorate.

Commitment to Human Rights

The committee reiterated its condemnation of all acts of violence targeting civilians. It emphasized the need to ensure access to essential resources, including health care, water, and education. Furthermore, the committee affirmed the right of all victims to seek justice and reparations, highlighting the importance of addressing their humanitarian needs and rights.

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