A humanitarian situation that is deteriorating day by day
This September marks the 12th anniversary of the war in Yemen, and the situation there is becoming increasingly alarming. In a country already severely weakened by more than a decade of conflict, a further escalation of hostilities is now leading to large-scale population displacement.
According to the latest figures from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), more than 112,000 people have been displaced since the start of this latest escalation in June 2026, representing nearly 19,000 families. Many have had to leave their homes in a hurry, with immediate needs for shelter, water and food, as well as access to healthcare.
These displacements are placing additional strain on regions and healthcare systems whose capacity had already been severely weakened by more than a decade of conflict.
Mehad, an actor who has already shown his commitment to the Yemeni people
In the Abyan provincial administration, the Lawdar hospital – supported by Mehad and situated close to the front line – is preparing for a possible influx of casualties.
This latest escalation is also affecting Aden, which Mehad’s Director-General, Dr Mego Terzian, recently visited. On his return from the mission, he spoke to RFI about the situation he observed on the ground and the difficulties faced by local authorities and humanitarian organisations in responding to the arrival of new waves of displaced people.
Mehad has been working in Yemen since July 2024, alongside local healthcare providers to build their capacity in a sustainable way and ensure that people continue to have access to healthcare.
This initiative builds on the work Mehad has been carrying out since 2024: supporting healthcare facilities, strengthening the skills of Yemeni healthcare workers and helping to ensure that healthcare remains accessible to the most vulnerable communities.
A stepped-up response to the emergency
This latest surge is placing a strain not only on healthcare services but also on the professionals who are striving to maintain access to care in an increasingly challenging environment. Dr Pierre Catoire discusses these issues in an interview with France 24.
This escalation is driving Mehad to remain actively involved alongside Yemeni healthcare workers to maintain access to care and support the most vulnerable healthcare facilities. In an increasingly fragile situation, strengthening local capacity remains essential to responding to the emergency and ensuring continuity of care.
