Hodeida upsurge will make the Yemen war yet deadlier

Significance

The Saudi-led coalition backing President Abd Rabbu Mansur Hadi’s internationally recognised government has redoubled efforts to evict Huthi fighters from the port city of Hodeida following the failure of a UN-led attempt to restart negotiations between the warring parties. However, the Huthis, who have controlled Hodeida since 2014, are mounting a determined defence of the city and surrounding countryside.

Impacts

• The Huthis appear to be committing fully to Hodeida’s defence, heralding a protracted and costly battle with high civilian casualties.
• The volume of humanitarian aid, food and fuel imports through Hodeida will be dramatically reduced until fighting near the port abates.
• The ongoing battle to control the Hodeida-Sana’a road means little food or fuel can reach warehouses and distribution points in the capital.