Djibouti faces worsening humanitarian crisis as Yemeni refugees arrive

Djibouti’s humanitarian situation has deteriorated sharply in recent weeks as a growing number of Yemenis fleeing conflict across the Bab al‑Mandab strait arrive by sea. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that more than 20,000 Yemeni nationals have entered the country since the start of the month, overwhelming shelters, food distribution centers and health clinics already stretched by the needs of the resident population and earlier waves of migrants. Local authorities have declared the influx a “humanitarian emergency,” citing shortages of clean water, limited medical supplies and insufficient accommodation for families who often spend nights in makeshift camps along the coast.

International agencies and non‑governmental organizations have mobilised additional resources, with the World Food Programme delivering emergency rations and the International Organization for Migration coordinating sea‑rescue operations. Djibouti’s government has appealed for urgent funding, warning that without swift assistance the combined pressures could trigger a broader crisis affecting both refugees and host communities. The situation remains fluid as aid groups work to expand shelter capacity and provide basic services while diplomatic efforts continue to seek a durable solution for the displaced Yemenis.