Yemen: A Decade of War, a Lifetime of Loss

Yemen: A Decade of War, A Lifetime of Loss

For ten years, the people of Yemen have endured unimaginable hardship—bombings, starvation, and devastation. A decade of war has left the nation shattered, its infrastructure in ruins, and its people trapped in an endless cycle of suffering. Yet, as the conflict enters its eleventh year, global attention continues to fade.

Today, nearly 20 million Yemenis rely on humanitarian aid to survive. Around five million are still displaced, forced to move repeatedly by conflict or environmental disasters. Once a focal point of global concern, Yemen has now been overshadowed by new crises, leaving those who remain in the country feeling abandoned. But for those living through this war, their struggle is far from over.

A Crisis Beyond the Headlines

For many Yemenis, particularly humanitarian workers, the war is deeply personal. They have withstood airstrikes and unrest while doing everything possible to support their communities. Even as funding declines and tensions rise, they continue their efforts despite increasing uncertainty about their own future. Unlike others, they cannot simply leave or seek new opportunities elsewhere—their passports determine their fate.

Yemen is often reduced to headlines about war and famine, but the country is far more than a battleground. It is a land of breathtaking landscapes, ancient heritage, rich traditions, and warm hospitality. Unfortunately, these aspects rarely make the news. Instead, Yemenis are frequently portrayed only as victims of war and poverty. It’s time to recognize the individuals behind the statistics.

The People Behind the Crisis

Take Basma, a mother from Al Hodeidah who fled to Al Makha with her children in search of safety and water. She once spent hours daily walking long distances just to collect a few jerrycans of water. On one occasion, her youngest child collapsed from dehydration while waiting in the scorching sun. For years, clean water was an unattainable dream—until a recent water project finally brought some relief to her community.

Then there’s Ibrahim, a 70-year-old man who lost everything when floods overwhelmed his settlement in Ma’rib. As the waters rose, he carried his disabled son on his back to reach safety. They now live in a fragile tent, exposed to the elements, with no certainty of when or if aid will arrive.

Or Mohammed, a young Ethiopian migrant who embarked on a dangerous journey through deserts and war zones in search of a better life in the Gulf. Instead, he found himself stranded in Yemen—detained, beaten, and left starving. By the time he arrived at an IOM Migrant Response Point, he was weak, traumatized, and desperate to return home. Many others in his position never get that chance.

Beyond Survival: A Call for Action

These stories are just a few among millions. Yemen, one of the poorest countries in the Arab world, is being pushed further into hardship—not because of its people’s failings, but because the world is slowly turning away. Yemenis are not responsible for the crisis consuming their nation, yet they bear its full weight. They don’t need pity—they need solidarity.

As global leaders gather, make promises, and set priorities, Yemen must not be forgotten. The people of Yemen are not just victims; they are survivors, caregivers, educators, and dreamers. Their resilience is undeniable, but resilience alone will not fill empty stomachs or provide shelter. Words mean little without action.

To ignore Yemen now would not just be a diplomatic failure—it would be a failure of humanity. Let this be the year we transform concern into action. Yemen cannot wait any longer.

Originally published on *IOM Blogs* on 26 March 2025.