Political Developments in Hadhramaut and Neighboring Governorates

Hadhramaut is currently experiencing rapid political activity that reflects local aspirations for self-governance amid ongoing tensions with central authorities. The Hadhramaut Tribal Alliance, led by Sheikh Amr bin Habrish, held a general assembly on the Hadhramaut Plateau, where it demanded the granting of autonomous administration to the governorate as a “minimum entitlement,” firmly rejecting any form of external dominance. The alliance issued an appeal to the international community, particularly Saudi Arabia, to support these demands, affirming the right of Hadhramaut’s people to defend their land through local recruitment. Bin Habrish also announced agreements with Saudi Arabia to establish a 500-megawatt power station to address the chronic electricity crisis, as well as understandings to strengthen Hadhrami representation in security and military forces, thereby enhancing their role in maintaining local security.

Bin Habrish sharply criticized the Presidential Leadership Council, accusing it of failing to present a national project and of threatening the governorate, referencing threats made by council member Aidarous al-Zubaidi during his recent visit to Mukalla. He alleged that the two leaders were colluding to undermine Hadhramaut’s demands. Bin Habrish confirmed that the alliance would henceforth deal directly with the Arab Coalition and Saudi Arabia, bypassing the Presidential Leadership Council in the future. He also accused other parties of pursuing their own interests, in contrast to the alliance’s focus on Hadhramaut’s welfare.

In parallel, the Hadhramaut Reference Authority held an extraordinary meeting in Sayun, affirming that Hadhramaut is a principal partner in any political settlement and calling for the unification of Hadhrami ranks without excluding any party. The authority stressed the importance of involving Hadhramis in the diaspora in future dialogues, given their economic and social influence, and called on authorities to improve living conditions and empower Hadhrami talent in civil and military positions. The authority reiterated its support for Hadhramaut’s rights and rejected being drawn into conflicts that do not reflect the Hadhrami consensus.

Separately, the “Change and Liberation Movement” was announced under the leadership of Riyadh al-Nahdi, whose previous affiliation with al-Qaeda has sparked controversy. Al-Nahdi is reportedly connected to decision-making circles in Turkey, signaling Ankara’s entry as a new player in the Yemeni political scene.

Meanwhile, Presidential Leadership Council member Faraj al-Bahsani called for de-escalation and an end to political and media provocations in order to preserve social cohesion, stressing that Hadhramaut’s stability is a national priority. Governor Mabkhout bin Madi discussed with US Ambassador Steven Fagin ways to enhance security and combat terrorism, commending the role of the Arab Coalition and the United States. Ambassador Fagin reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting Hadhramaut’s stability, especially as the governorate marks the ninth anniversary of its liberation from al-Qaeda.

Political Developments in Yemen

Nationally, Yemen is undergoing a sensitive political and military phase amid efforts to restore state institutions and confront the Houthi coup. On the third anniversary of the formation of the Presidential Leadership Council, President Rashad al-Alimi called for national unity and intensified support for the “battle for liberation,” reaffirming his commitment to ending the suffering caused by Houthi control. He noted that the council has been a turning point in unifying national forces, with support from regional and international partners to halt economic and humanitarian decline. In a meeting with Foreign Ministry leaders, Al-Alimi emphasized the role of Yemeni diplomacy in securing international support for restoring state institutions and exposing Houthi violations that threaten regional and international security.

For his part, Vice President Tariq Saleh, during a meeting with the National Resistance on the western coast, urged the Houthis to surrender Sana’a and their weapons, describing them as an Iranian proxy executing Tehran’s expansionist agenda. Saleh stressed the need to raise military and political readiness and unify republican ranks, praising the support of the Arab Coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the UAE. He also called for forming an international coalition to defeat the Houthi project and restore security.

Diplomatically, UN envoy Hans Grundberg held talks in Muscat with Houthi leaders and Omani officials, focusing on stability and humanitarian issues. Grundberg demanded the immediate release of detained UN staff, warning that such actions impede peace efforts. Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam stated that the meeting addressed de-escalation and a return to the peace process.

Meanwhile, Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani warned against UN moves that could offer the Houthis a “political lifeline,” noting that Yemen’s experience since the 2014 coup shows the group’s lack of commitment to dialogue. Al-Eryani stressed that the Houthis have exploited every negotiation to prolong the war, and that their “peaceful” rhetoric masks an extremist agenda threatening regional security. He cautioned against being misled by such discourse, warning that repeating past mistakes would lead to further destruction.

Key Political Events (April 2025)

  • Saturday, April 5: Sheikh Amr bin Habrish voiced criticism of the Presidential Leadership Council’s policies, pointing to coordination between President Rashad al-Alimi and Aidarous al-Zubaidi that may conflict with Hadhramaut’s demands.
  • Tuesday, April 8: Rashad al-Alimi emphasized the importance of diplomacy in supporting state restoration efforts and confronting the challenges posed by the Houthis, commending the Foreign Ministry’s role in highlighting violations.
  • Saturday, April 12: The Hadhramaut general assembly issued a statement demanding self-governance as a minimum entitlement, rejecting any attempts at external dominance.
  • Sunday, April 13: The Shabwa National Council expressed support for Hadhramaut’s demands, describing them as aligned with societal aspirations, and stressed that Hadhramaut’s diversity is a source of strength. The council called on the Presidential Leadership Council to address these demands seriously and emphasized the importance of national cooperation to achieve shared goals.
  • The Hadhramaut Reference Authority held a meeting in Sayun, reaffirming Hadhramaut’s role as a key partner in any political settlement, calling for unified efforts through a committee to bring together the tribal alliance, and demanding the inclusion of Hadhramis abroad and improved living conditions. The authority reiterated its support for the governorate’s demands while avoiding involvement in conflicts.
  • Brigadier General Tariq Saleh stressed the need for the Houthis to surrender Sana’a and their weapons, citing their external agendas. He called for increased readiness to restore the state, praised cooperation with the Arab Coalition, and called for the formation of an international coalition to confront the Houthis, noting that Yemen is at a critical juncture.
  • Monday, April 14: Abu Omar al-Nahdi announced the launch of the “Change and Liberation Movement” in Hadhramaut, aiming to promote reform and build a just state, inviting Yemenis to join this national project.
  • Tuesday, April 15: The Hadhramaut Inclusive Conference expressed concern over reports of 2,500 armed personnel entering from Aden, Lahj, and al-Dhalea, considering this a threat to the governorate’s stability. The conference called on Hadhrami forces to confront these developments and urged the coalition and the Presidential Leadership Council to return these fighters. It stressed that Hadhramaut’s future should be determined by its people, not by force.
  • Thursday, April 17: Major General Faraj al-Bahsani called on Hadhramaut’s factions to de-escalate and avoid political tensions. He emphasized the importance of calm for maintaining social cohesion and called for an end to media campaigns to facilitate dialogue, considering de-escalation essential for reducing polarization and enhancing stability.
  • Friday, April 18: The Hadhramaut Tribal Alliance renewed its call to form a unified political entity representing all segments of the governorate. The alliance called for a consultative meeting involving parties and civil organizations, warning that division weakens Hadhramaut’s position. This stance reflects ongoing efforts to unify ranks amid controversial military movements.
  • Saturday, April 19: The Presidential Leadership Council called on Hadhramaut’s parties to engage in dialogue to resolve disputes and avoid escalation, stressing the importance of the governorate’s stability and proposing the formation of a national mediation committee. This statement comes amid tensions resulting from military movements and mutual accusations among parties.
  • Mohammed Jumeih expressed concern over the destruction of Yemen’s ports, noting that Houthi actions could provide international powers with opportunities to target infrastructure. He called for confronting the Houthis with a national ground force and warned against Yemen becoming an arena for international conflicts.
  • Sunday, April 20: The Socotra National Conference condemned the Southern Transitional Council’s actions against the archipelago’s residents, criticizing a campaign targeting qat sellers that included raids, arrests, and the deportation of 22 individuals. The conference described these actions as illegal, calling for respect for citizens’ rights and adherence to legal procedures.
  • Governor Mabkhout bin Madi discussed with US Ambassador Steven Fagin ways to enhance security cooperation. Bin Madi affirmed that Hadhramaut’s stability supports Yemen’s overall stability, expressing gratitude for US support. Fagin commended local authorities’ efforts in combating extremism and pledged support for development and security.
  • Monday, April 21: US Ambassador Steven Fagin called on Hadhramaut’s stakeholders to resolve their differences peacefully and unite efforts to confront the Houthis. He stressed the importance of the governorate’s stability for Yemen’s security and warned against exploiting internal divisions. He also emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation between local authorities and the Hadhrami Elite Forces.
  • Thursday, April 24: The Change and Liberation Movement announced a political action plan for Hadhramaut, including consultative meetings and the launch of national dialogue initiatives. The movement affirmed its commitment to peaceful action, rejection of any external support, prioritization of reform, and Yemen’s stability, urging Hadhramaut’s people to support this plan.
  • Wednesday, April 24, 2025: UN envoy Hans Grundberg met with Omani officials and Houthi leaders in Muscat to discuss political and humanitarian developments in Yemen. Grundberg stressed the importance of releasing detained UN staff, while Mohammed Abdulsalam noted that the meeting discussed de-escalation efforts and strengthening the peace process with a focus on stability.
  • Friday, April 26, 2025: Moammar al-Eryani expressed concern over the UN envoy’s moves, warning that they could support the Houthis by reviving the peace process. He cautioned that the Houthis might exploit these initiatives to reorganize, urging caution regarding the group’s rhetoric. Al-Eryani considered reintegrating the Houthis a threat to security and a form of support for terrorism.

Economic Developments in Hadhramaut and Neighboring Governorates

One of the most notable positive developments in the past period was the increase in revenues from the Al-Wadiah land port, which reached 114 billion Yemeni rials in 2024-a 17% rise compared to the previous year. This growth underscores the port’s vital role in boosting foreign trade.

However, the four governorates continue to face significant challenges, particularly on the island of Socotra, where fuel prices have soared to unprecedented levels. The price of a 20-liter can of gasoline reached 46,000 Yemeni rials, while a small gas cylinder costs 29,000 rials, and the large cylinder is double that amount. These increases have negatively impacted the cost of living, driving up transportation and consumer goods prices and exacerbating economic pressures on residents.

To strengthen energy security and address these challenges, the Minister of Oil and Minerals, Dr. Saeed Al-Shamasi, held a meeting with the Governor of Hadhramaut to discuss stabilizing fuel supply and securing strategic reserves of household gas. The meeting addressed plans to expand storage facilities, modernize distribution stations, increase the number of storage tanks, and train technical staff. These efforts aim to ensure a steady flow of supplies and to respond to emergencies or supply chain disruptions, thereby enhancing economic stability and mitigating price volatility. Governor Bin Madi emphasized the importance of coordination among government agencies to meet citizens’ needs, highlighting energy security as a top priority.

Economic Developments in Yemen

At the national level, Yemen’s economy is facing a severe crisis exacerbated by ongoing conflict and humanitarian challenges. The Yemeni rial has experienced an unprecedented collapse in government-controlled areas, with the exchange rate reaching 2,430 rials per US dollar by April-a jump of 16 rials in a single day and 93 rials over two weeks. According to the World Food Programme, this represents a 26% year-on-year decline, reflecting the currency’s weakness and loss of purchasing power. As a result, prices of essential goods such as food, water, and healthcare have surged, further deepening the hardships faced by citizens[1][2][3].

In an effort to address the crisis, the Yemeni government has intensified negotiations with the International Monetary Fund to secure new loans worth billions of dollars during the 2025 Spring Meetings in Washington. Finance Minister Salem bin Breik confirmed that these negotiations are being conducted under “Article IV” to assess the economic situation, with funding needs expected to be determined in the coming months. However, concerns persist about the rising external debt, estimated at around $6 billion, with the exact figure unclear due to data shortages[1][4].

On the humanitarian front, the United Nations announced the receipt of an additional $40.7 million in funding for the 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan, bringing the total to $172.1 million as of April 1, 2025. This funding, provided by countries such as Saudi Arabia and Germany, is crucial for addressing the humanitarian crisis affecting over 18 million Yemenis in need of assistance. Nevertheless, this amount represents only a fraction of the required funds, as UN estimates indicate a need for $2.5 billion to support 10.5 million people in 2025[2][5].

Meanwhile, the government is working to strengthen productive sectors such as agriculture and fisheries through cooperation with the World Bank. In April 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Fisheries held a meeting with a World Bank delegation, in which the Bank committed significant funding to support food and water security. These initiatives include projects like the $278 million Food Security Response, rehabilitation of fish landing centers in several governorates, and interventions in water resource management in Wadi Hajar (Hadhramaut) and Wadi Tuban (Lahj). These efforts aim to build a more resilient economy and reduce reliance on external aid[6].

Timeline of Key Economic Events (April 2025)

  • Tuesday, April 1:
    Oxfam warned of an impending economic and humanitarian collapse in Yemen due to division and violations, noting that the currency in government areas has lost 90% of its value, driving up food and water prices. In Houthi-controlled areas, repression is hindering aid delivery, worsening the catastrophic situation.
  • Thursday, April 3:
    The United Nations office received $40.7 million in funding to support Yemen’s humanitarian response plan, bringing the total to $196.5 million. The funding aims to provide food, healthcare, and shelter, but remains below required levels.
  • Wednesday, April 9:
    The Ministry of Civil Service in Aden announced the opening of promotion and allowance procedures for 2021–2024, but ongoing economic crises raise doubts about implementation.
  • Sunday, April 13:
    Al-Wadiah Port in Hadhramaut recorded revenues of 114 billion rials in 2024, up 17% from the previous year.
    The Minister of Oil and the Governor of Hadhramaut met to ensure the flow of fuel and gas supplies, discussing storage development and distribution station upgrades. The governor emphasized energy security, while the minister highlighted plans to increase storage and diversify supply sources.
  • Tuesday, April 15:
    Hadhramaut Valley Electricity Corporation warned of system collapse due to fuel shortages, which have led to increased outages and generator shutdowns.
  • Wednesday, April 16:
    The Prime Minister directed the launch of international flights from Mokha International Airport with Emirati support, aiming to boost air traffic and support neighboring governorates economically.
    The PetroMasila station in Aden ceased operations due to halted oil supplies from Marib and Hadhramaut. The electricity corporation warned of a total blackout as diesel supplies run out, threatening to worsen the humanitarian situation amid rising temperatures and calling for urgent intervention.
  • Thursday, April 17:
    The rial collapsed in Aden, reaching 2,430 rials per US dollar, up 93 rials since early April. In contrast, prices in Sana’a remained stable at 537 rials. The government’s inability to intervene threatens further increases in commodity prices and exacerbates citizens’ suffering.
    The Minister of Information called on banks to move their headquarters to Aden to protect the banking sector from Houthi control and warned of international sanctions on those dealing with them.
  • Saturday, April 19:
    The Ataq power station in Shabwa shut down due to diesel shortages, causing a complete blackout. Service in Ataq was limited to five hours per day, while other districts experienced total outages.
  • Tuesday, April 22:
    Fuel prices in Socotra soared, with a 20-liter can of gasoline reaching 46,000 rials and a gas cylinder 29,000 rials. The price hikes threaten vital sectors such as fishing and tourism, drive up commodity prices, worsen poverty, and hinder small projects on the island.

The government intensified negotiations with the IMF for a multi-billion-dollar loan. The Yemeni delegation discussed economic reforms and service support, while the finance minister warned of reduced health support amid external debts threatening stability.

  • Saturday, April 26:
    The Central Bank in Aden sold $35 million at a rate of 2,385 rials per dollar, aiming to enhance import capacity.

Security and Military Developments in Hadhramaut and Neighboring Governorates

The Security Committee in Hadhramaut has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding state authority and protecting official institutions, firmly rejecting the formation of parallel military entities or any practices that threaten public security. The committee issued a stern warning against recruitment outside the official frameworks of the Ministries of Defense and Interior, as well as the establishment of unauthorized armed checkpoints engaged in extortion and illegal levies-actions it described as violations of the law that threaten the stability of the governorate. The committee also highlighted attempts by terrorist groups to exploit the current situation to spread chaos, calling for collective cooperation to confront these challenges[1][2].

Similarly, the Security Committee in Wadi and Desert Hadhramaut convened a meeting in which it reiterated its rejection of parallel formations, warning of the consequences of such efforts aimed at undermining state institutions. The committee stressed that recruitment must occur strictly within the frameworks of the Ministries of Defense and Interior, emphasizing that illegal formations contribute to renewed instability and the escalation of conflict. The committee called on community leaders to support its efforts to maintain security and stability and warned against any suspicious attempts to sow disorder[1][2].

A major security event was the arrest of Brigadier General Mohammed Omar Al-Yemeni, Chief of Staff of the Second Military Region, in March 2025. The incident sparked widespread reactions among tribal and military circles, with the Hadhramaut Tribal Alliance, represented by spokesperson Saeed Salem Al-Saeedi, considering the arrest a direct targeting of the Hadhrami Elite Forces and part of efforts to reshape the military landscape by replacing local forces with units from outside the governorate, as previously occurred in Shabwa. The arrest coincided with the return of Sheikh Amr bin Habrish from a visit to Saudi Arabia, fueling speculation about a Saudi-Emirati rivalry in the region. The Security Committee confirmed that the arrest was carried out under directives from the Military Prosecutor’s Office, stressing that procedures are being followed in accordance with the law to ensure justice and transparency.

In a separate incident, the city of Sayun witnessed a massive fire at a fuel station, resulting in material losses estimated at over 250 million Yemeni rials, including the destruction of a truck loaded with gas cylinders. Civil defense teams, supported by an airport fire truck, managed to contain the blaze. The incident highlighted infrastructure challenges and the need to strengthen safety measures, with investigations ongoing to determine the cause and calls for station owners to enhance preventive protocols.

Security and Military Developments in Yemen

April 2025 has seen a significant military escalation in Yemen, marked by a major U.S. operation that began on March 15, 2025. This campaign, the largest U.S. military operation in the Middle East during President Donald Trump’s second term, has involved around one thousand air and naval strikes targeting Houthi positions. The strikes have focused on radar systems, air defenses, and missile and drone launch sites used by the Houthis to attack commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The objectives are to cut off Houthi funding sources, degrade their military capabilities, and send a deterrent message to Iran, which is accused of supporting the group[3][4].

Among the notable targets was the airstrike on Ras Issa Port on April 23, a key fuel trading hub, which reportedly killed 80 civilians and injured 150 others according to Houthi sources. Other strikes hit residential neighborhoods in Sana’a, resulting in 12 civilian deaths and 30 injuries, as well as attacks on Sana’a International Airport, and sites in Saada and Marib. Despite the intensity of the strikes, reports indicate only limited success in destroying the Houthis’ arsenal, which relies on an extensive network of ground sites and underground tunnels[3][4].

The Houthis have responded with counter-military operations, including a double attack on two U.S. aircraft carriers and a strike on a military target in Tel Aviv, reflecting a cycle of escalation that threatens regional stability. The Israeli military announced the interception of a missile launched from Yemen. The Yemeni government, represented by Foreign Minister Shaea Al-Zandani, expressed support for efforts to weaken the Houthis, stating that the strikes were a response to the group’s terrorist designation and its threats to maritime navigation. However, the government stressed the need to restore control over all Yemeni territory, supporting Saudi and Omani-led peace efforts while remaining prepared for military action if these efforts fail, with the liberation of Sana’a remaining a strategic objective[3][4].

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that the strikes aim to dismantle Houthi military capabilities and deter Iran’s support for the group’s arsenal. Nevertheless, the resulting civilian casualties have drawn widespread criticism, with the Houthi-run Ministry of Health reporting 250 civilian deaths since the operations began in March 2025, highlighting the high human cost of the conflict[3][4].

Key Security Events (April 2025)

  • Tuesday, April 1:
    The Houthis announced the downing of a U.S. MQ-9 drone over Marib, the sixteenth such incident since the escalation began.
  • Wednesday, April 2:
    The Houthi Ministry of Health reported 200 civilian casualties from U.S. airstrikes since March 15. The total since the start of the Gaza support campaign stands at 250 killed and 714 wounded, according to the group, which accused the U.S. of deliberately targeting civilians.
  • Friday, April 4:
    The Masam Project condemned the continued use of landmines by the Houthis, which threaten civilian lives. Since 2018, 486,000 explosive devices have been cleared. The project called for international support to address this challenge amid Yemen’s ongoing humanitarian crisis.
  • Saturday, April 5:
    Masam carried out the destruction of 2,439 unexploded ordnance items in Abyan, in accordance with international standards.
  • Sunday, April 6:
    S. warplanes conducted five airstrikes on Kamaran Island; no details on casualties were reported.
  • Monday, April 7:
    The Houthis announced that four people were killed and 25 wounded in a U.S. airstrike on a house in Sana’a, accusing the U.S. of targeting civilians and complicating peace efforts.
  • Thursday, April 10:
    A Houthi drone targeted a house in Hays, Al-Hudaydah, killing three children. Local authorities condemned the attack and called on the coalition to support the liberation of remaining areas under Houthi control.
  • Friday, April 11:
    The Yemeni Minister of Defense affirmed the readiness of government forces to liberate territory from the Houthis, holding them responsible for the militarization of the Red Sea.
  • Saturday, April 12:
    A drone targeted a vehicle near Al-Nasr Camp in Ataq, Shabwa, setting it ablaze and charring the driver’s body.
    The Hadhramaut Security Committee issued a decision banning the carrying and transport of weapons through security checkpoints to enhance stability. The committee denied rumors about allowing weapons passage and urged citizens to cooperate.
  • Sunday, April 13:
    Clashes erupted in Ataq, Shabwa, between security forces and suspected al-Qaeda militants, resulting in the death of a wanted individual and injuries to others.
    S. drones conducted two airstrikes in the Al-Abr area of Hadhramaut: the first destroyed a vehicle and killed its driver, while the second killed an unidentified person.
  • Monday, April 14:
    Military leaders in Hadhramaut demanded the release of Brigadier General Mohammed Al-Yemeni, detained since March 27, describing the incident as a threat to military unity and accusing the Security Committee of negligence.
    Al-Yemeni arrived in Riyadh after his detention in Mukalla.
  • Wednesday, April 16:
    The Hadhramaut Security Committee reaffirmed the ban on carrying weapons and prohibited recruitment outside the Ministries of Defense and Interior, warning against parallel formations and unauthorized checkpoints.
  • Thursday, April 17:
    Clashes broke out at a camp in Shabwa between local soldiers and the STC leadership over alleged discrimination in task assignments. Soldiers refused orders to transfer for training, escalating tensions.
  • Sunday, April 13:
    The Houthis launched an arrest campaign in Sana’a targeting leaders and teachers accused of spying for the U.S.
  • Monday, April 14:
    The U.S. Secretary of Defense reiterated that the strikes on the Houthis aim to deter Iran, the group’s primary backer.
    The Yemeni Foreign Minister announced government support for U.S. strikes against the Houthis, calling them a response to threats to maritime navigation and urging military action to liberate Sana’a.
  • Friday, April 18:
    The UN Secretary-General expressed concern over U.S. airstrikes on Ras Issa Port, which killed 74 and wounded 171.
    The Houthis announced attacks on two U.S. aircraft carriers and a site in Tel Aviv in retaliation for U.S. strikes on Ras Issa.
  • Tuesday, April 22:
    Dera’ Al-Watan forces thwarted a Houthi infiltration attempt in Kirsh, Lahj, resulting in two deaths and several injuries.
  • Thursday, April 25:
    S. officials reported that over 300 airstrikes have targeted 700 Houthi sites since March 2025.

Humanitarian Situation

Tuesday, April 1
The United Nations reported that 80% of Yemen’s population-approximately 24.1 million people-will require humanitarian assistance in 2025 due to ongoing conflict and economic collapse. Of these, 17.6 million are food insecure, and 2.7 million children face acute malnutrition. The report also recorded the displacement of 4.5 million people, most of whom are in Marib and Al-Hudaydah. The worsening crisis is attributed to war, currency devaluation, and a lack of international funding, with only 40% of the 2024 response plan covered[1][2].

Thursday, April 3
The United Nations expressed concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Yemen as a result of U.S. airstrikes on Houthi positions, warning that this could push the country into the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that the strikes have displaced 12,000 families since March 2025 and destroyed vital infrastructure. While 21 million people depend on aid, funding shortages continue to hinder distribution[1][2].

Friday, April 4
The Saudi “Masam” Project for Mine Clearance announced the removal of 486,000 landmines and explosive devices in Yemen since 2018, including anti-personnel and anti-tank mines, and improvised explosive devices planted by Houthi forces. Operations have focused on Marib, Aden, Al-Hudaydah, and Taiz, contributing to the protection of civilians, especially children.

Monday, April 7
Hadhramaut Governor Mabkhout bin Madi met with Deputy Youth Minister Fahmi Badawi to discuss youth support initiatives. The session resulted in the launch of a vocational training program for 300 young men and women in technical and administrative fields, funded locally.

Tuesday, April 8
The Houthis announced that the United Nations had reduced humanitarian aid to Yemen by 80% for 2025. Their Foreign Minister described the move as an “escalation,” noting the suspension of humanitarian work in Saada.

Wednesday, April 16
Journalists’ unions in Hadhramaut, Shabwah, Al-Mahra, and Socotra condemned the arrest of journalist Awad Kashmim, describing it as an act of intimidation aimed at silencing dissent. They called for his immediate release and accountability for those responsible, warning against the recurrence of such violations, which undermine Hadhramaut’s tradition of respecting press freedom.

Thursday, April 17
A “Save the Children” report revealed that 70% of Yemeni children are deprived of education due to war and poverty, with 4.5 million children out of school. The organization called for $300 million in annual funding to rehabilitate the sector and warned of the dangers of forced labor and child recruitment.

Sunday, April 20
Amnesty International warned of a looming humanitarian catastrophe in Yemen due to U.S. airstrikes and ongoing clashes. The organization documented the deaths of 200 civilians and the displacement of thousands of families, alongside fuel and aid shortages.

Monday, April 21
The World Food Programme reported that 17.6 million Yemenis are food insecure in 2025, with 6 million classified as being in an emergency phase. This crisis is attributed to currency collapse, soaring fuel prices, and infrastructure destruction. Al-Hudaydah, Taiz, and Saada recorded the highest hunger rates. The WFP warned of funding shortages and called for urgent intervention to avert widespread famine[3][1].

Statistics and Key Indicators

  • The “Masam” Project has removed 488,000 landmines and explosive devices in Yemen since 2018, including anti-personnel and anti-tank mines, and IEDs planted by Houthi forces. Operations have focused on Marib, Aden, Al-Hudaydah, and Taiz, significantly contributing to civilian protection, especially for children.
  • As the conflict enters its tenth year, statistics reveal the scale of Yemen’s humanitarian tragedy:
    • 2 million people, including 9.8 million children, require urgent assistance.
    • Around 500,000 children will need treatment for severe wasting.
    • 8 million people lack access to basic healthcare.
    • 4 million lack safe water and sanitation.
    • 5 million children are out of school, with at least 2,424 schools destroyed since 2015.
    • 4 million children need protection services, and 6.2 million require educational support.
    • 17 million people suffer from food insecurity, and 186,000 suspected cholera cases have been reported.
  • Yemen ranked 154th out of 180 countries in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index, up from 164th the previous year.
  • The National Commission to Investigate Alleged Violations documented 3,055 human rights violations in Yemen between August 2023 and July 2024, resulting in 13,028 victims. These included killings, child recruitment, and arbitrary detentions, out of a total of 29,701 violations since 2016.
  • The Media Freedoms Observatory recorded 98 violations against journalists in 2024, including the execution of a journalist, arrests, and threats. Six journalists remain detained, with perpetrators rarely held accountable.
  • Germany provided €19.8 million through UNICEF to combat malnutrition in seven Yemeni governorates, targeting children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers to reduce stunting and chronic hunger.

International and Regional Developments

Foreign Press Coverage: April 2025
International media in April 2025 focused heavily on the repercussions of unprecedented U.S. military escalation in Yemen, especially the rising civilian casualties and divisions within the U.S. administration. The airstrike on Ras Issa oil terminal on April 17 was a key event, resulting in at least 74 civilian deaths according to UN OCHA investigations. Footage aired by the Houthi-affiliated Al-Masirah channel showed extensive destruction of oil facilities and fuel depots, while the Pentagon stated the attack targeted “critical infrastructure used to finance terrorist group activities.”

A new leak from the “Signal” platform revealed deep divisions within the U.S. administration over Yemen strategy. The chat, attributed to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, included instructions for “relentless” strikes on sites in Sana’a and other provinces, while Vice President J.D. Vance objected, calling the plan a “reckless adventure.” These leaks followed President Trump’s April 19 statement threatening the “complete annihilation of the Houthis within 90 days,” signaling a radical shift in U.S. rhetoric. An article by the Atlantic Council highlighted the Houthis’ resilience and adaptability despite ongoing U.S. strikes since mid-March, noting Washington’s challenges in targeting Houthi leadership due to intelligence gaps. The article recommended a multi-pronged U.S. strategy, including enhanced intelligence, maritime interdiction, diplomatic pressure on Houthi backers, and support for Yemen’s legitimate government to improve governance and the economy, as military solutions alone are insufficient to achieve U.S. objectives[4].

International criticism intensified after the April 28 strike on a migrant detention center in Saada. Human Rights Watch reported that at least 68 civilians-mostly Africans-were killed in a U.S. airstrike on the center, corroborated by Reuters through video and satellite imagery. Researcher Nico Jafarnia described the attack as a “violation of international humanitarian law,” highlighting the U.S. administration’s failure to protect civilians after weakening civilian harm monitoring mechanisms.

Regional Developments
On April 25, Israel announced the interception of a ballistic missile launched from Yemen toward Eilat. On April 30, the Pentagon declared the “complete destruction of the Houthi financial network”-a claim disputed by independent economists, who praised the resilience of the Houthi war economy.