Djibouti Seeks Global Aid for Yemeni Refugees

Djiboutian Foreign Minister Abdoulkader Omar addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday, highlighting the severe humanitarian strain his country faces due to the ongoing conflict in Yemen. He reported that several thousand individuals have entered Djiboutian territory after fleeing violence across the border.

Refugee Influx Strains Local Resources

Omar renewed an appeal to the international community to increase assistance, enabling Djibouti to adequately manage this growing flow of displaced persons. According to United Nations estimates cited by the minister, the number of arrivals from Yemen could reach 10,000 people.

The new influx places significant pressure on host communities in the Obock region and tests the capacity limits of the Mersa camp, a known refugee facility. Omar warned that Djibouti cannot independently meet the escalating demands for shelter, food, and essential services required by Yemenis escaping combat zones.

Call for Political Resolution

The minister called for de-escalation and a sustainable political solution to the Yemeni conflict. He cautioned against further deterioration of the humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the urgent need to preserve lives amid the continuing violence.

Red Sea Navigation Concerns

Separately, Omar described maintaining freedom of navigation in the Red Sea as a critical geopolitical and economic issue for regional and global stability. He specifically pointed to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which has become a central focus in the fighting within Yemen.

Characterizing this maritime route as a vital artery for international trade, the foreign minister warned that any obstruction to vessel movement could severely impact global supply chains and energy security. Despite these concerns, he noted that Djibouti has not yet observed any disruption in transit through the strait.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely given current regional tensions. Recent clashes between Houthi groups and government forces have triggered the displacement of tens of thousands both inside and outside Yemen. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have expanded their control over territory to include the country’s western coast, encompassing the Bab el-Mandeb area.