UN warns that up to 10,000 Yemenis may seek refuge in Djibouti amid fresh fighting
The UN says renewed clashes in Yemen could push as many as 10,000 people to flee across the Red Sea to Djibouti, while internal displacement may rise to over 230,000.
Renewed hostilities in Yemen, sparked by a Houthi offensive along the Red Sea coast, have triggered a new wave of displacement. UN refugee officials estimate that up to 10,000 Yemenis may attempt the dangerous sea crossing to Djibouti in the coming months, after more than 3,000 have already arrived this week. At the same time, internal displacement could surge from roughly 130,000 to over 230,000, on top of the 5.2 million already forced from their homes.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees highlighted a severe funding shortfall, with only 18 % of its 2026 budget for Yemen secured and just 15 % for Djibouti operations funded. It urgently needs $25 million for immediate aid to 231,000 people in Yemen and $13.5 million to support arrivals in Djibouti. The worsening crisis threatens to deepen an already dire humanitarian situation affecting an estimated 22 million Yemenis who require assistance.
Why it matters
Mass displacement threatens regional stability and strains already limited humanitarian resources.
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