Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Renewed fighting in southwest Yemen has displaced at least 46,000 people, a figure the International Organization for Migration (IOM) says is "rising by the hour." This displacement primarily affects the governorates of the West Coast and Taiz, with new arrivals reported in Lahj, Aden, and movements north towards Ibb.
Houthi fighters took control of the strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha earlier in the week, prompting mass departures of families. The conflict, involving Houthi forces and Yemeni government troops supported by a Saudi-led coalition, has intensified amid broader regional tensions following a US-Israeli offensive against Iran. Media reports indicate hundreds of combatant casualties on both sides.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported 67 deaths and 288 injuries between 6 and 24 August. Humanitarian agencies note that only about 60% of Yemen's health facilities are fully functional, and hospitals are overwhelmed by trauma cases. Entire villages in districts such as Maqbanah, Jabal Habashi, and Al Ma’afer in Taiz have been deserted as fighting moves closer to populated areas.
The road connecting Mokha to Taiz, a crucial supply route, has reportedly been cut off, increasing pressure on host communities. IOM has urged all parties to guarantee safe, sustained humanitarian access and protection for aid workers and facilities, as well as to restore vital communication and transportation routes for aid delivery.