Renewed conflict in Yemen has prompted a significant displacement crisis, with families increasingly crossing the Bab al-Mandab strait to seek refuge in neighboring Djibouti. Fighting between Iran-aligned Houthi militia and government forces has escalated around key areas including the port city of Mocha and the governorate of Taiz, as Houthis attempt to expand territorial control. The humanitarian toll has been substantial, with more than 900 deaths reported and at least 250,000 people forced from their homes since the beginning of August.
Yemeni civilians describe harrowing escapes from active combat zones. One resident recounted witnessing airstrikes from a Saudi-led coalition supporting government forces while ground fighting raged nearby, prompting him to flee with his young family across the strait in a crowded boat. Another displaced person from Mocha described fears of forced recruitment by Houthis and concerns for her teenage son’s safety. These families have arrived at humanitarian sites in Djibouti with minimal possessions, having abandoned homes and livelihoods amid the violence.
Djibouti’s Markazi humanitarian site near Obock is now hosting thousands of newly arrived Yemeni refugees alongside those who fled earlier conflicts. According to Yemen’s assistance agency, new arrivals reached 3,807 as of October 8. Officials report mounting pressure on shelter capacity, water supplies, sanitation facilities, food assistance and healthcare services, with the rate of arrivals outpacing available resources and infrastructure capacity.
The current escalation marks a significant deterioration following a UN-facilitated ceasefire that had largely held since 2022. Tensions resumed in July following Houthi drone and missile strikes toward Saudi Arabia, which they characterized as retaliation for Saudi airstrikes on the international airport in Sana’a. International observers and humanitarian organizations have called for increased support from the global community to assist Djibouti in managing the displacement crisis.
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