The Yemeni Women’s Empowerment Foundation reports 476 crimes and violations, with 321 civilian victims in 38 days of Houthi escalation.

Alarming Rise in Civilian Casualties in Yemen Amid Houthi Attacks

The Yemeni Women’s Empowerment Foundation has reported a staggering 476 crimes and violations against civilians, resulting in 321 civilian casualties and the displacement of thousands of families. This surge occurred between August 1 and September 7, 2026, amid escalating attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi militia.

Detailed Findings from the Report

In a report titled “Under the Shadow of Arms: Civilians Facing Crimes and Violations by the Houthi Militia,” the foundation detailed the extensive use of ballistic missiles, artillery shells, drones, landmines, and explosive devices by the Houthi forces. The repercussions of these attacks extended beyond land, affecting maritime areas such as the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab, where ships and crews faced significant threats, endangering fishermen and international shipping routes.

According to the foundation, the Houthi militia launched 243 attacks targeting civilians using missiles, artillery, and drones. These assaults primarily affected regions including Al-Mokha, the western coast, Marib, Taiz, Al-Jawf, and Al-Dhale. Notably, a failed missile launch in Ibb province destroyed five homes and injured several civilians.

Civilian Impact and Human Rights Violations

The documented casualties included 39 civilians, among them 17 children, and 121 injuries, with 38 of those being children. Additionally, the report highlighted 43 civilians who were kidnapped or detained, 17 sniper incidents that resulted in civilian deaths in Taiz and Al-Hudaydah, and five cases of missing children in areas controlled by the Houthi militia.

The foundation also reported seven instances of military forces occupying civilian hospitals, repurposing them for military efforts. Furthermore, there were 18 cases of financial confiscation and the seizure of agricultural, commercial, and real estate properties. The report noted the explosion of a civilian home in Al-Bayda and 29 incidents of home raids, arrests, and violations of privacy.

Targeting Children and Civilian Infrastructure

The report revealed the Houthi militia’s ongoing recruitment of children, with 113 minors aged between 10 and 16 years identified as being forced into combat roles. Additionally, the report documented attacks on civilian properties, including homes, farms, roads, vehicles, judicial facilities, and health services.

Call for Accountability and Immediate Action

The Yemeni Women’s Empowerment Foundation holds the Houthi militia accountable for the crimes and violations committed by its members. The foundation demands an immediate cessation of attacks on civilians, the release of arbitrarily detained individuals, an end to child recruitment, the halting of extortion, the return of confiscated properties, the provision of minefield maps, and the protection of displaced persons and civilian facilities.

The foundation urges the United Nations and the international community to treat these violations as a matter of accountability, emphasizing the need to protect civilians, preserve evidence, and seek justice for victims rather than dismissing these events as mere incidents amid ongoing conflict.

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