Floods Rock Yemen Just as Ceasefire Begins
By: Nathan Matsko
The port of Aden. Aden, Yemen. Photo from Wikimedia Commons
State College — Torrential rainfall has led to catastrophic flooding in southern Yemen.This follows a similar event that rocked the war-torn country’s south late last month, resulting in a handful of deaths and untold damages to infrastructure.
Social media posts give a glimpse into the situation unfolding during today’s floods. Entire streets in the port city of Aden are being washed away, taking nearby cars with them.
It is estimated at least four people have died as a result.
Other posts show United Nation camps set up for internally displaced persons (IDPs) ravaged by floodwater. There are roughly 4 million IDPs in Yemen, with many who have sought protection in the country’s south.
The flood is cause for concern amongst many observers, who believe that the Southern Transitional Council (STC), which currently occupies Aden, is unequipped and unprepared to implement relief efforts for those affected. Some suggest that international aid is the only way to support victims of the flood.
The STC has a checkered past with international aid. Late last month, the UAE-backed organization was accused of stealing a shipment of medical equipment from the World Health Organization meant to help the city deal with the coronavirus.
Aden is also currently embroiled in a bitter feud that threatens to shatter the fragile ceasefire holding the country together. The Saudi-backed Islah party has vowed to recapture the city amidst a series of skirmishes between their militants and STC-affiliated groups.